wrap in cotton wool: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘wrap in cotton wool’ mean?
The idiom "wrap in cotton wool" means to protect someone or something excessively or over-protectively, often preventing them from experiencing or dealing with difficult situations or challenges on their own.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "wrap up" means to finish or complete something, typically in a timely manner.
It is often used to indicate the end of a task, project, or event.
The idiom "wrap around one's little finger" means to have complete control or influence over someone, manipulating them effortlessly to do what you want.
The idiom "whole cloth" means to create or invent something entirely new, without any basis or reference to existing facts or evidence.
The idiom "walk on eggshells" means to proceed with extreme caution and sensitivity in order to avoid upsetting or angering someone.
The idiom "take cover" means to seek shelter or protection from imminent danger or harm. It implies the need to find a safe place to shield oneself from potential threats or hazards.
The idiom "sugar coated" refers to the act of making something appear more pleasant or attractive than it really is.
The idiom "sugarcoat the pill" means to make something unpleasant or difficult seem more appealing or easier to accept.
The idiom "stick one's head in the sand" means to ignore or refuse to acknowledge a problem or unpleasant situation, often out of fear or denial.
Coddling Care: The Origins
The idiom "pull the wool over someone's eyes" is a phrase commonly used in the English language to describe the act of deceiving or tricking someone by concealing or distorting the truth. While it may not seem directly related to the idiom "wrap in cotton wool," there is a parallel in the theme of hiding or shielding someone or something from the truth.
cotton to, originating from American English slang in the early 19th century, is an idiom used to describe someone who is attracted to or interested in something or someone. Although it may not have an obvious connection to the idiom "wrap in cotton wool," both idioms revolve around the idea of caring for or protecting someone or something.
swaddling clothes, historically used to wrap infants tightly in cloth for warmth and security, serves as a symbol of tenderness, protection, and comfort. While the idiom "wrap in cotton wool" is not directly linked to swaddling clothes, they both convey a sense of ensuring someone or something is well taken care of.
Walking on eggshells is a common idiom used to describe a situation where someone is cautious and overly careful in their actions or words, usually to avoid causing offense or tension. Though it may not seem closely related to "wrap in cotton wool," both phrases share a sense of handling fragile or delicate situations with care and sensitivity.
handle with kid gloves, a phrase originating from the world of boxing, refers to treating something or someone with extreme care and tact. While there may not be an immediate connection to "wrap in cotton wool," both idioms emphasize the need for gentle handling and protection.
The idiom "wrap in cotton wool" represents an overprotective and cautious approach towards someone or something. While it may not directly relate to the idioms "pull the wool over someone's eyes," "cotton to," "swaddling clothes," "walk on eggshells," and "handle with kid gloves," there are parallel themes of protection, sheltering, and handling delicately within each idiom.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *wrap in cotton wool* can be used in a sentence are:
- I can't believe you're still wrapping your children in cotton wool! They need to learn how to be independent.
- Her parents have always wrapped her in cotton wool, so she has trouble dealing with everyday challenges.
- The manager insists on wrapping his star player in cotton wool to avoid any injuries before the big game.
More "Protection" idioms
