ClimateAugust 8, 2026

cocoons

kuh-KOONZ

Definition

Protective silk cases spun by insect larvae, such as caterpillars, to house and shelter them during their transformation stage into pupae.

Etymology

Derived from the French word 'cocon,' which originated from the Occitan 'cocoun' meaning 'shell' or 'egg.' It entered English in the 18th century to describe the protective coverings spun by insects.

In the news

The article suggests leaving fallen leaves in the yard to provide essential shelter for various insects and larvae that overwinter in cocoons, thereby supporting local biodiversity.

Leaving The Leaves Welcomes Wildlife, Preserves Biodiversity

Read the full article ↗

E — The Environmental Magazine

Related words

amphibians

Cold-blooded vertebrate animals, such as frogs, toads, and salamanders, that typically…

Climate

amylin

A peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin that helps regulate blood glucose levels,…

Climate

avian

Relating to, characteristic of, or derived from birds.

Climate

berobenatide

An experimental pharmaceutical compound, currently under clinical development by Pfizer,…

Climate

birdlife

The birds of a particular region, habitat, or ecosystem.

Climate

boars

Wild pigs or swine, specifically the uncastrated male of the species, often found in…

Climate

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.