noun C2 Proficient

cocoon

kuh-KOON

Cocoon (noun) means a silky protective case spun by insect larvae, in which they transform into their adult form. Example: “The caterpillar spun a cocoon and emerged weeks later as a moth.”

noun

A silky protective case spun by insect larvae, in which they transform into their adult form.

"The caterpillar spun a cocoon and emerged weeks later as a moth."

verb

To wrap or shelter someone or something protectively, often cutting it off from the outside world.

"She cocooned herself in blankets during the storm."

"He cocooned himself away from the news for a few days."

How to use cocoon

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA silky protective wrapping made by insects, or (as a verb) to wrap something up snugly and protectively.

Common pairings

spin a cocoon cocoon yourself emerge from a cocoon

Word forms

cocooned past tense, cocoons plural, cocoons singular

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The caterpillar spun a _____ and emerged weeks later as a moth.

Etymology

From French cocon, a diminutive of coque, "shell."

Origin: French

Rhymes for cocoon

noon moon soon hoon toon poon foon goon loon boon woon doon

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Frequently asked questions

What does “cocoon” mean?

The word “cocoon” means a silky protective case spun by insect larvae, in which they transform into their adult form. In plain terms, a silky protective wrapping made by insects, or (as a verb) to wrap something up snugly and protectively.

How do you pronounce “cocoon”?

“Cocoon” is pronounced kuh-KOON (/kəˈkuːn/ in IPA).

How do you use “cocoon” in a sentence?

Here is “cocoon” used in a sentence: “The caterpillar spun a cocoon and emerged weeks later as a moth.”

What part of speech is “cocoon”?

Depending on how it is used, “cocoon” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “cocoon” come from?

The word “cocoon” comes from French. From French cocon, a diminutive of coque, "shell.".

How many meanings does “cocoon” have?

“Cocoon” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a silky protective case spun by insect larvae, in which they transform into their adult form.

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