cotton wool

• Matière douce et duveteuse faite de fibres de coton, utilisée pour nettoyer les plaies, appliquer des cosmétiques ou comme rembourrage. En français, on parle aussi de coton hydrophile ou de coton absorbant.

Soft, fluffy material made from cotton fibers, used for cleaning wounds, applying cosmetics, or padding. In American English, it is commonly referred to as 'cotton balls' or 'absorbent cotton'.

1. Soft absorbent materialA2formalbritish

   A soft, fluffy mass of cotton fibers used for cleaning, applying liquids, or padding.

   coton hydrophile

   • She used cotton wool to clean the wound.
   • The nurse applied antiseptic with a piece of cotton wool.
   • Cotton wool is often used in first aid kits.

2. Overprotective environmentB2informalbritish

   A situation where someone is excessively protected from difficulties or dangers.

   environnement surprotégé

   • He was raised in a cotton wool environment and never faced real challenges.
   • Parents should not wrap their children in cotton wool.
   • The company kept its employees in cotton wool, avoiding any criticism.