scallop

/ˈskæləp/
noun
  1. A marine mollusk with a fan-shaped shell, often used as food.
    • The scallop shell is a symbol often used in art and design.
    • We ordered seared scallops for dinner at the seafood restaurant.
    • Scallops live on the ocean floor and swim by clapping their shells together.
  2. One of the shells of a scallop, or a shape resembling it, used decoratively.
    • The edge of the tablecloth had a pretty scallop pattern.
    • The dress had scallops along the hem that gave it a vintage look.
    • She collected scallop shells on the beach to use as decorations.
verb
  1. To bake food, especially potatoes or seafood, in a creamy sauce or with breadcrumbs.
    • I like to scallop potatoes with cheese and cream for a holiday side dish.
    • She scalloped the oysters and served them with lemon wedges.
    • The recipe says to scallop the fish with butter and herbs.
  2. To cut or shape the edge of something into a series of curves or scallops.
    • She scalloped the fabric to make a fancy border for the pillow.
    • The carpenter scalloped the edge of the wooden shelf for a decorative finish.
    • The pastry chef scalloped the pie crust with a special cutter.
Synonyms