Basic Details
Word: Cocoon
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A protective covering spun by certain insects to shelter themselves while growing, especially by caterpillars before they become butterflies.
Synonyms: Chrysalis, case, wrapper
Antonyms: Open, exposure
Idioms and Phrases
- In a cocoon: To be insular or cut off from the outside world, often in a state of comfort. Example: "During the winter, I like to stay in a cocoon with my books and hot chocolate."
- Cocooned in comfort: To feel very comfortable and protected, usually at home. Example: "Snuggled under the blanket, she felt cocooned in comfort as the rain pattered outside."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The caterpillar spun a silky cocoon to protect itself while it transformed into a butterfly.
Example 2: When it started to snow outside, we stayed inside, feeling safe and warm like we were in a cocoon.
Example 3: The artist found inspiration in nature, particularly in the delicate shapes of cocoons hanging from tree branches.
Fun Fact
Did you know that some cocoons can be very elaborate and can even be mistaken for small nests? The silk threads are incredibly strong and can protect the insect from predators during its development stage.
Famous Quote
"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cocoon" mean?
a) A type of flower
b) A protective covering for young insects
c) A type of furniture
d) A kind of weather phenomenon
Answer: b) A protective covering for young insects
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cocoon"?
a) Wrapper
b) Boat
c) Vegetable
d) Car
Answer: a) Wrapper
3. What is the antonym of "cocoon"?
a) Shield
b) Open
c) Protect
d) Cover
Answer: b) Open
4. Which sentence uses "cocoon" correctly?
a) The cocoon flew beautifully in the sky.
b) He wrapped the gift in a cocoon of bright paper.
c) The spider wove a cocoon to catch its food.
d) The turtle climbed into its cocoon.
Answer: b) He wrapped the gift in a cocoon of bright paper.
5. Which idiom means being insulated from the outside world?
a) Living in a bubble
b) Cocooned in comfort
c) Cry over spilled milk
d) Going the extra mile
Answer: b) Cocooned in comfort
