"Happy as a clam" is often used to describe someone who is extremely content and satisfied. The phrase could seem odd at first, considering it's not obvious that clams can feel happiness. In reality, the phrase originates from the full saying "happy as a clam at high water", which makes more sense as high water is when clams are free from the attention of predators. The phrase then succinctly encapsulates experiencing joy when times are good and one is safe from harm or trouble. It's a perfect analogy to use when you're feeling so great that your happiness could rival that of a clam at high tide! It's a wonderful example of language's capacity for metaphor and whimsy.
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