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cocon

cocoon

noun ko-KOHN Rare
Animals & Nature Insects

Usage Note

Cocon refers to the silk case spun by a caterpillar before metamorphosis. Figuratively it describes any snug, sheltered environment — rester dans son cocon ('to stay in one's cocoon') is a common expression for someone who avoids the outside world. The verb se cocooner (to cocoon oneself, to stay in for a cosy night) has gained popularity in modern French.

Examples

"La chenille tisse son cocon pour se transformer."

Natural Translation

The caterpillar weaves its cocoon to transform.

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