co·coon (k -k n )n. 1. a. A protective case of silk or similar fibrous material spun by the larvae of moths and other insects that serves as a covering for their pupal stage. b. A similar natural protective covering or structure, such as the egg case of a spider. 2. A protective plastic coating that is placed over stored military or naval equipment. 3. Something suggestive of a cocoon in appearance or purpose: "a congressionally mandated process that will gradually strip these institutions of a cocoon of regulations" (Edward Meadows). v. co·cooned, co·coon·ing, co·coons v.tr. To envelop in or as if in a cocoon, as for protection from a harsh or unfriendly environment. v.intr. To retreat as if into a cocoon, as for security from a harsh or unfriendly environment. [French cocon, from Provençal coucoun, diminutive of coco, shell, from Late Latin coccum, from Latin, berry, oak gall, from Greek kokkos, seed, berry.] |
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