Meaning & use
cocoon
A protective silky case spun by an insect larva, especially a moth, in which it develops into an adult.
See it in a sentence
The caterpillar spun a cocoon on the underside of the leaf before winter.
Inside the cocoon, the pupa slowly transforms into a moth.
A note on using this word
A cocoon differs from a chrysalis, which is the hardened outer skin of a butterfly pupa without a spun silk casing.
Words with a similar meaning
This term is best learned through its definition and examples.
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. verb
To wrap or shelter someone or something protectively, often cutting it off from the outside world.
They cocooned themselves in blankets and stayed inside during the blizzard.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “cocoon”, then compare your use with the examples above.