cocooning

American  

[kuh-koo-ning] / kəˈku nɪŋ /

noun

1. the comforting self-care practice of staying in and spending time at home rather than going out to socialize, especially enjoying quiet or sedentary leisure activities or entertainment.

   After the excitement and activity of the holidays, I look forward to cocooning for the entire month of January.

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Etymology

Origin of cocooning

An Americanism dating back to 1985–90; cocoon ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Something that understood the rhythm of a slow morning, thick socks, a fogged-up kitchen, the whole mood of wintertime cocooning.

From Salon

He also suggested government advisers were too quick to dismiss policies which, he argued, would have better protected the elderly and vulnerable by "cocooning" carers and other family members with whom they might have contact.

From BBC

When she’s out and about, this pacific, reserved woman turns her face into an impassive mask and wraps a long traditional blanket around her, effectively cocooning her body with it.

From New York Times

The reactor structure was prepared for cocooning by abating asbestos and isolating the electrical system.

From Seattle Times

The wontons have a delicate wrapper cocooning an amalgam of fatty pork and snappy shrimp, just begging to be stirred up in their bowl of sauce.

From Seattle Times