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cocoon
[ kuh-koon ]
noun
- any of various similar protective coverings in nature, as the silky case in which certain spiders enclose their eggs.
- a protective covering, usually consisting of polyvinyl chloride, sprayed over machinery, large guns on board ships, etc., to provide an airtight seal and prevent rust during long periods of storage.
- any encompassingly protective or hermetic wrapping or enclosure resembling a cocoon:
a cocoon of gauze.
verb (used without object)
- to produce a cocoon.
- to spend time at home rather than going out to socialize, especially when enjoying comforting, quiet leisure activities or entertainment:
After a certain age you realize you’d rather skip the club and just cocoon with the hubby, watching a movie on the sofa.
verb (used with object)
- to wrap or enclose tightly, as if in a cocoon:
The doctor cocooned the patient in blankets.
- to provide (machinery, guns, etc.) with a protective, airtight covering by spraying with polyvinyl chloride or the like.
- to envelop or surround protectively; insulate:
a political leader cocooned by his staff and his bodyguards.
cocoon
/ kəˈkuːn /
noun
- a silky protective envelope secreted by silkworms and certain other insect larvae, in which the pupae develop
- a similar covering for the eggs of the spider, earthworm, etc
- a protective spray covering used as a seal on machinery
- a cosy warm covering
verb
- tr to wrap in a cocoon
cocoon
/ kə-ko̅o̅n′ /
- A case or covering of silky strands spun by an insect larva and inhabited for protection during its pupal stage.
- A similar protective structure, such as the egg cases made by spiders or earthworms.
Other Words From
- co·coon·like adjective
Word History and Origins
Word History and Origins
Origin of cocoon1
Example Sentences
He’s so invested in how to envelop theatergoers in a protective antiviral cocoon that he spent a fortune bringing to his 2,200-seat London Palladium devices from South Korea that emit antibacterial mist as ticket holders pass through them.
In the event of an accident, a 360-degree cocoon airbag deploys to completely encompass both the seat and its occupant for maximum protection.
In addition to the handy kangaroo pocket, a fabric flap folds over the sleeve opening to make little cocoons for your hands.
Their egg cases, or cocoons, are so small that they can easily hitch a ride on a hiker’s or gardener’s shoe, or can be transported in mulch, compost or shared plants.
Those cores are otherwise hard to study hidden in their thick, gassy cocoons.
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