English Explanatory Dictionary

cocoon

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The silky case spun by the larvae of some insects in which they metamorphose, protecting the pupa within.
  2. Any similar protective case, whether real or metaphorical.
verb
  1. To envelop in a protective case.
  2. To withdraw into such a case.

Pronunciation

/kəˈkuːn/ en-us-cocoon.ogg

Word forms

cocoon cocoons cocooning cocooned

Etymology

From French cocon, diminutive of coque (“shell”).

Derived words

brood cocoon carcoon cocooner cocoonery cocoonet cocoonish cocoonlike decocoon jet cocoon uncocoon
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