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Definition of cocoon : 1. An oblong case in which the silkworm lies in its chrysalis state. It is formed of threads of silk spun by the worm just before leaving the larval state. From these the silk of commerce is prepared.
2. The case constructed by any insect to contain its larva or pupa.
3. The case of silk made by spiders to protect their eggs.
4. The egg cases of mucus, etc., made by leeches and other worms.

Synonyms:

cover, chrysalis, pupa, envelope

Usage examples:

• That is, the girl whom you left at nine years old and on coming back find her sixteen, has dropped down her skirts, has drawn up her hair, and that is the butterfly cocoon, and it is a mighty pretty butterfly cocoon. - "Parent and Child Vol. III., Child Study and Training", Mosiah Hall.
• In order to discover if the Thomisus is capable of a similar error, I gathered some broken pieces of silk- worm's cocoon into a closed cone, turning the fragments so as to bring the smoother and more delicate inner surface outside. - "The Life of the Spider", J. Henri Fabre.
• He tried to howl in the hyacinth web, and choked- and then he merely fought in his close- pressing cocoon, thrusting one hard fist to grasp the broad leaves. - "O. Henry Memorial Award Prize Stories of 1921", Various.