Clam up

verb

To suddenly stop talking or refuse to speak.

She clammed up when the police asked her about the incident.
Visual representation of "clam up" - To suddenly stop talking or refuse to speak.

Often appears as...

  • clam up and refuse to speak
  • clam up suddenly

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

verb

To suddenly stop talking or refuse to speak.

She clammed up when the police asked her about the incident.
Visual representation of "clam up" - To suddenly stop talking or refuse to speak.

Often appears as...

  • clam up and refuse to speak
  • clam up suddenly

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "clam up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Silence

Used when someone stops speaking due to strong emotions like fear, surprise, or sadness.

Illustration for Emotional Silence
When confronted about the theft, he clammed up from shame.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Pressure Response

Common reaction to being under scrutiny or intense questioning, not necessarily guilt.

Illustration for Pressure Response
During the intense interview, the candidate clammed up.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Avoiding Details

May indicate someone is intentionally withholding information or avoiding a topic.

Illustration for Avoiding Details
She clammed up whenever the conversation turned to her past.
Visual representation of the word "Clam up"

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