cobweb Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a fabric so delicate and transparent as to resemble a web of a spider
  2. noun filaments from a web that was spun by a spider
    gossamer.
  3. noun a dense elaborate spider web that is more efficient than the orb web

WordNet

Cob"web` noun
Etymology
Cob a spider + web.
Definitions
  1. The network spread by a spider to catch its prey.
  2. A snare of insidious meshes designed to catch the ignorant and unwary.
    I can not but lament thy splendid wit Entangled in the cobwebs of the schools. Cowper.
  3. That which is thin and unsubstantial, or flimsy and worthless; rubbish.
    The dust and cobwebs of that uncivil age. Sir P. Sidney.
  4. (Zoöl.) The European spotted flycatcher. Beck. Draper's Dict.
    Such a proud piece of cobweb lawn. Beau. & Fl.

Webster 1913