Cockle facts for kids
"Cockle" is a word that can mean different things. It might refer to a type of seashell, a plant, a sweet candy, or even a special kind of boat used in wartime. Let's explore some of these meanings!
Contents
What is a Cockle (Seashell)?
A cockle is a small, edible type of bivalve mollusc. This means it's a sea creature with two shells that hinge together, like a clam or an oyster. Cockles live in sandy areas along coastlines all over the world.
How Cockles Live
Cockles usually live just under the surface of the sand. They use a strong, muscular "foot" to dig themselves into the sand. This foot also helps them to move around. When the tide comes in, cockles open their shells slightly to filter tiny bits of food, like plankton, from the water.
Cockles and People
People have been eating cockles for thousands of years! They are a popular seafood in many countries, especially in Europe. You might find them steamed, boiled, or added to dishes like paella.
Other Meanings of "Cockle"
Cockle as a Plant
Sometimes, "cockle" can refer to a plant called Lolium temulentum. This plant is also known as darnel. It's a type of grass that can sometimes grow in fields of wheat or other grains.
Berwick Cockle Candy
Have you ever heard of a Berwick cockle? This isn't a seashell or a plant, but a type of sweet candy! It's a traditional white candy with red stripes, made in the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed in England.
Cockles in Your Heart
You might hear the phrase "warm the cockles of your heart." This old saying means that something makes you feel very happy and warm inside. In this case, "cockles" refers to the ventricles of the heart, which are the main pumping chambers.
Cockle Boats in World War II
During World War II, "cockle" was a secret code name for special folding kayaks. These small, lightweight boats were used by brave soldiers for secret missions, like sneaking behind enemy lines. They were very important for special operations because they could be carried easily and then quickly put together.
People with the Surname Cockle
Some people have "Cockle" as their last name. Here are a few examples:
- Doug Cockle (born 1970), an American actor.
- James Cockle (1819–1895), an English lawyer and mathematician.
See also
- Cockle Bay (disambiguation)
- Cockle Creek (disambiguation)
- Cockleshell (disambiguation)
