cocoon

The definition of a cocoon is a protective covering or a silky covering made by an insect to shelter themselves while they grow.

(noun)

An example of a cocoon is a waterproof covering over a boat.
An example of a cocoon is the case where a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.

(noun)

To cocoon is defined as to cover something to keep it safe.

(verb)

An example of to cocoon is for a mother to hold a child tightly during a storm.

See cocoon in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the silky or fibrous case which the larvae of certain insects spin about themselves for shelter during the pupa stage
any protective cover like this, as the egg capsule of certain spiders, leeches, etc.
any cover used to waterproof or protect something, esp. military equipment for transport or storage

Origin: Fr cocon < Prov coucoun, egg shell, dim. of coca, shell-like container < ML coco, shell, hull

transitive verb

See cocoon in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A protective case of silk or similar fibrous material spun by the larvae of moths and other insects that serves as a covering for their pupal stage.
b. A similar natural protective covering or structure, such as the egg case of a spider.
A protective plastic coating that is placed over stored military or naval equipment.
Something suggestive of a cocoon in appearance or purpose: “a congressionally mandated process that will gradually strip these institutions of a cocoon of regulations” (Edward Meadows).

verb co·cooned, co·coon·ing, co·coons

verb, transitive

To envelop in or as if in a cocoon, as for protection from a harsh or unfriendly environment.

verb, intransitive

To retreat as if into a cocoon, as for security from a harsh or unfriendly environment.

Origin:

Origin: French cocon

Origin: , from Provençal coucoun

Origin: , diminutive of coco, shell

Origin: , from Late Latin coccum

Origin: , from Latin, berry, oak gall

Origin: , from Greek kokkos, seed, berry