cocoon Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun silky envelope spun by the larvae of many insects to protect pupas and by spiders to protect eggs
  2. verb retreat as if into a cocoon, as from an unfriendly environment
    • Families cocoon around the T.V. set most evenings
    • She loves to stay at home and cocoon
  3. verb wrap in or as if in a cocoon, as for protection

WordNet

Co*coon" noun
Etymology
F. cocon, dim. of coque shell of egge and insects, fr. L. concha mussel shell. See Conch.
Definitions
  1. An oblong case in which the silkworn lies in its chrysalis state. It is formed of threads of silk spun by the worm just before leaving the larval state. From these the silk of commerce is prepared.
  2. (Zoöl.) (a) The case constructed by any insect to contain its larva or pupa. (b) The case of silk made by spiders to protect their eggs. (c) The egg cases of mucus, etc., made by leeches and other worms.

Webster 1913