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coquillage

shell

noun ko-kee-YAZH Rare
Animals & Nature Sea Creatures

Also means

shellfish

Usage Note

Coquillage refers both to a seashell (the object) and loosely to shellfish as food. On French restaurant menus, plateau de coquillages et crustacés (shellfish and crustaceans platter) is a classic seafood spread. The diminutive coquille (f) means 'shell' more precisely; coquillage often implies the whole animal inside. Collecting coquillages on the beach is a beloved French seaside pastime.

Examples

"Les enfants ramassaient des coquillages sur la plage."

Natural Translation

The children were collecting shells on the beach.

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