chrysalis
- the hard-shelled pupa of a moth or butterfly; an obtect pupa.
Origin of chrysalis
Related Words for chrysalis
evolution, advancement, expansion, improvement, increase, progress, maturity, progression, addition, reinforcement, enlargement, augmentation, hike, flowering, advance, boost, buildup, spread, adulthood, developingExamples from the Web for chrysalis
Contemporary Examples of chrysalis
Chrysalis, a new line of lingerie, aims to create undergarments for transgender women.
Historical Examples of chrysalis
I hate musical people; that is, when in the chrysalis state of learning.
Hers were ice cold—but inside they tingled and glowed, like a worm of fire in a chrysalis of ice.
The Incomplete AmoristE. Nesbit
The caterpillar and the chrysalis belong to the embryonic period.
The Sexual QuestionAugust Forel
He struck the only thing within his reach, the chrysalis case itself.
"Wee Tim'rous Beasties"Douglas English
Childhood is a chrysalis from which each must extricate himself.
Fantasia of the UnconsciousD. H. Lawrence
chrysalis
- the obtect pupa of a moth or butterfly
- anything in the process of developing
Word Origin for chrysalis
Word Origin and History for chrysalis
c.1600, from Latin chrysallis, from Greek khrysallis (genitive khrysallidos) "golden colored pupa of the butterfly," from khrysos "gold," perhaps of Semitic origin (cf. Hebrew and Phoenician harutz "gold") + second element meaning something like "sheath." Seeking a plural, OED leans toward the classically correct chrysalides.
chrysalis
- The pupa of certain kinds of insects, especially of moths and butterflies, that is inactive and enclosed in a firm case or cocoon from which the adult eventually emerges.
- The case or cocoon of a chrysalis.