cocoon

• Enveloppe soyeuse tissée par les larves de nombreux insectes pour protéger la chrysalide, ainsi que par certaines araignées pour protéger leurs œufs.

A silky envelope spun by the larvae of many insects to protect pupas and by spiders to protect eggs.

1. Silky protective coveringB1formal

   A silky case spun by the larvae of many insects, such as moths and butterflies, to protect the pupa, and also by spiders to protect their eggs.

   Cocon protecteur en soie

   • The caterpillar spun a cocoon around itself before transforming.
   • Spiders often create a cocoon to safeguard their eggs.
   • Inside the cocoon, the insect undergoes metamorphosis.

   Synonymeschrysalis

2. Safe or protective environmentB2informal

   A place or situation that provides safety, comfort, or isolation from the outside world.

   cocon protecteur

   • Her home was a warm cocoon away from the stress of work.
   • He lived in a cocoon of privilege, unaware of the struggles of others.
   • The small town felt like a cocoon, safe and familiar.

   Synonymesbubblehavennestrefugeretreatsanctuaryshelterwomb

• Verbe signifiant envelopper ou enfermer étroitement quelque chose ou quelqu'un comme dans une enveloppe protectrice, ou isoler, abriter du monde extérieur.

A verb meaning to wrap or enclose something or someone tightly, as if in a protective covering, or to isolate or shelter from the outside world.

1. Retreat for safetyB2informal

   To withdraw or isolate oneself from the outside world, often to feel safe or protected from stress or danger.

   Se retirer pour se protéger

   • After the stressful week, she decided to cocoon at home with a good book.
   • He cocooned himself in his room to avoid the family argument.
   • Many people cocoon during the winter months, staying indoors and avoiding social events.

   Synonymescloisterensconcehole upinsulateisolatesecludesequestershut awaywithdraw

   Antonymesconfrontengageinteract

2. Wrap protectivelyB2formal

   To envelop or cover something or someone completely, as if in a protective shell.

   Envelopper, emmitoufler

   • The mother cocooned her baby in a warm blanket.
   • The fragile artifact was cocooned in layers of bubble wrap for shipping.
   • The caterpillar cocoons itself before transforming into a butterfly.

   Synonymesbundle upencaseenfoldenvelopmufflesheatheswaddlewrap

   Antonymesexposerevealuncoverunveil