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Coddled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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coddled

[ˈkɒd.əld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

carefully treated

To coddle someone means to treat them with excessive care or indulgence. It often implies a level of pampering that may hinder independence.

Synonyms

indulge, pamper, spoil.

Examples of usage

  • She coddled her children to ensure they had everything they wanted.
  • The coach strived to motivate his players without coddling them too much.
  • He felt coddled by his parents, who always considered his needs first.
Context #2 | Verb

gentle cooking

In cooking, to coddle refers to a method where food is cooked gently in water just below boiling. This technique is often used for eggs or delicate items.

Synonyms

poach, simmer, steam.

Examples of usage

  • Coddled eggs make a perfect addition to any brunch.
  • You can coddle fish by simmering it in a fragrant broth.
  • The recipe called for coddled asparagus seasoned with herbs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research suggests that being overly coddled can lead to less independence and confidence in children as they grow.
  • Coddling may create an environment where individuals struggle with problem-solving and resilience because they are shielded from challenges.
  • Experts argue that a balance of support and independence is essential for healthy emotional growth.

Culinary

  • Coddled eggs are a popular dish where eggs are cooked gently in a water bath, resulting in a soft texture.
  • In French cuisine, 'coddled' can refer to dishes that emphasize tender cooking methods, showcasing ingredients' natural flavors.
  • Coddling in cooking is similar to techniques like poaching or steaming, all focused on keeping the essence intact.

Cultural References

  • In modern culture, the term is often used critically to describe parenting styles that excessively shelter children.
  • Some movies and books portray coddling as a theme, highlighting the struggles of overly protected characters adjusting to the real world.
  • The phrase 'coddled generation' is used to describe youth who may face challenges due to being excessively pampered.

Literature

  • Coddling often appears in fictional narratives as a device to explore themes of dependency and the quest for autonomy.
  • In classic literature, characters that are coddled often confront significant internal conflicts when faced with adversity.
  • Authors use coddling to challenge societal norms about child-rearing and its implications on personal development.

Origin of 'coddled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Old Norse 'kodd', meaning pillow, suggesting something soft and gentle.
  • It transitioned to Middle English as 'coddle', referencing the idea of keeping something warm and safe.
  • Coddled has roots related to the cooking technique where food is gently cooked in water, hence the association with softness.

The word 'coddle' likely derives from the late 16th century, originating from the English dialect 'codd' which means 'to hold.' Originally, it referred to the idea of holding something carefully or lightly. The term evolved to encompass the notion of treating something or someone with great care, leading to its current usage in both contexts of indulgence and gentle cooking. Over the centuries, the meaning has expanded and now incorporates a variety of cultural perspectives on parenting, caregiving, and culinary techniques. The popularity of the term in various contexts highlights its versatile application in English, reflecting social norms around care and nurturing.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,950 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.