Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒdəl/

Definitions

1. To cook (food, especially eggs or meat) gently in water just below boiling point.

2. To treat someone in an overprotective or indulgent manner; to pamper or spoil.

Usage Examples

• The chef carefully coddled the eggs to ensure they were soft and creamy.
• She tends to coddle her children, always making sure they are comfortable and happy.
• He was coddled by his parents, never learning to do things for himself.

Etymology

The word "coddle" comes from the Middle English word "coddlen," meaning to pamper or to cook gently. It is likely derived from the Old French word "coddre," meaning to cook slowly. The term evolved in the 16th century to include the sense of treating someone indulgently.

Synonyms

• Pamper
• Spoil
• Indulge
• Overprotect
• Care for

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Ignore
• Discipline
• Reprimand
• Abandon

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the word "coddle" may be pronounced slightly differently, especially in non-native English-speaking countries. For instance, in some parts of the UK, the word is pronounced with a softer "o" sound, while in American English, it may be slightly more stressed.

Historical Usage

The term "coddle" has been in use since the 14th century, originally meaning to "pamper" or "treat indulgently." Over time, it also came to be associated with the gentle cooking of food, specifically eggs, in hot water just below boiling point. The concept of "coddling" someone is seen as offering them comfort and care, often at the expense of teaching them to be more independent.

Cultural Nuances

Culturally, coddling can have both positive and negative connotations. On the positive side, it is seen as an expression of care and love, especially in familial or nurturing contexts. However, excessive coddling can be criticized as overprotective, preventing the individual from developing necessary skills or resilience.

More Information

The practice of coddling can be traced back to early childhood care practices where infants were held, comforted, and pampered to ensure emotional stability. Over time, this term also became associated with cooking methods, such as "coddling eggs," a gentle technique used to preserve their delicate texture. While "coddle" is often associated with indulgence, it can also refer to the act of showing excessive care that might inhibit growth, particularly in adults.