Whelk /(hwĕlk)/ Whelk n. Any one numerous species of large marine gastropods belonging to Buccinum and allied genera; especially, Buccinum undatum, common on the coasts both of Europe and North America, and much used as food in Europe. (Zool.) Phrases & Compounds Whelk tingle a dog whelk. See under Dog. Whelk n. A papule; a pustule; acne. A stripe or mark; a ridge; a wale. Phrases & Compounds Chin whelk sycosis. Rosy whelk grog blossom.