chrysalis

[kris-uh-lis]

noun

plural

chrysalises, chrysalides 

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

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

But Nirupama Rao, former Indian ambassador to Beijing and Washington, says India is "a titan in chrysalis" - too large and ambitious to bind itself to any single great power.

From BBC

Between “Snooze” and “Crybaby,” she was lifted on wires, revealing a gauze train in the shape of a chrysalis, to spellbinding effect.

From Los Angeles Times

This sort of dark chrysalis that created the Donald Trump that we know today.

From Los Angeles Times

Some may overwinter as adults, others in their immature stage as grubs, caterpillars or nymphs, while others will be in the pupal stage like a chrysalis or cocoon.

From Seattle Times

Also like Mozart, Tao emerged from the often-precarious chrysalis of childhood as a prodigy to become a complex artist, tirelessly curious to seek out new challenges.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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