ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cocoon

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //kəˈkun// UK //kəkˈuːn// co·coon

n. a soft, protective cover that some insects make to stay safe while they grow. It can also mean any place or feeling that makes you feel warm, safe, and hidden from the world.

n. a protective silk envelope spun by the larvae of many insects, such as moths, as a chamber for pupation. In a figurative sense, it refers to a protective or comforting environment that provides insulation from external stress.


SIMPLE

The caterpillar spun a silk cocoon around its body.

CONTEXTUAL

After a long day at the office, she retreated into the quiet cocoon of her apartment.

COMPLEX

The luxury resort was designed as a private cocoon, shielding its high-profile guests from the prying eyes of the media and the noise of the city.

Origin

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

Usage

Often used metaphorically with the preposition 'of' to describe a state of isolation or comfort.

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