chrysalis

[ kris-uh-lis ]

noun

, plural chrys·a·lis·es, chry·sal·i·des [kri-, sal, -i-deez].

1. the hard-shelled pupa of a moth or butterfly; an obtect pupa.

chrysalis

/ ˈkrɪsəlɪs /

noun

1. the obtect pupa of a moth or butterfly
2. anything in the process of developing

chrysalis

/ krĭs′ə-lĭs /

1. 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.
2. The case or cocoon of a chrysalis.

Word History and Origins

Origin of chrysalis¹

1650–60; < Latin chrȳsalis < Greek chrȳsallís, equivalent to chrȳs- chrys- + -allis suffix, probably with diminutive value

Word History and Origins

Origin of chrysalis¹

C17: from Latin chrӯsallis, from Greek khrusallis, from khrusos gold, of Semitic origin; compare Hebrew harūz gold

Example Sentences

Only 17 out of 390 simulated scenarios ended with Chrysalis breaking apart to create the rings.

From Science News For Students

Then add a twist when the youngest begins to emerge from the chrysalis of what appeared as an early traditional childhood gender path transforming over time into a butterfly of the opposite gender.

From Washington Blade

Chrysalis, a new line of lingerie, aims to create undergarments for transgender women.

From The Daily Beast

It is hardly more than a hundred thousand years since terrestrial humanity evolved itself from the animal chrysalis.

From Project Gutenberg

In Leeming-street it was in the chrysalis state; in Fishergate the butterfly epoch has been reached.

From Project Gutenberg

As I look back I seem to myself to have been only a chrysalis.

From Project Gutenberg

Why remember the chrysalis after the butterfly is in the air?

From Project Gutenberg

This often lasts for two hours or more; it might be said that the cream remains in chrysalis, and refuses to butterfly!

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• advancement
• evolution
• expansion
• improvement
• increase
• progress