also: ほっきがい
noun
Sakhalin surf clam
A type of edible clam found in northern waters, often used in sushi and sashimi. The name is sometimes written as 北寄貝, reflecting its northern origin.
See also: 姥貝
北海道ではホッキ貝の刺身が名物だ。
In Hokkaido, Sakhalin surf clam sashimi is a local specialty.
スーパーで生のホッキ貝を買った。
I bought fresh Sakhalin surf clams at the supermarket.
Another name for the same clam, but less common in everyday usage.
The name likely derives from the Ainu word 'poksey' or similar, referring to the clam. The kanji 北寄貝 literally means 'north-drawing shellfish', reflecting its northern habitat.