Definition of coddle

coddleverb

nưng niu

/ˈkɒdl//ˈkɑːdl/

The word "coddle" has a fascinating history. It originates from the Irish phrase "codladh," which means "to rock" or "to cradle." This term was used to describe the act of gently rocking a child to sleep or comforting them. In the 17th century, English settlers in Ireland adopted the phrase and adapted it to "coddle," which initially meant to treat someone with excessive care and attention. Over time, the meaning shifted to include a sense of pampering or indulging someone, often in a way that is considered excessive or navel-gazing. Today, to coddle someone means to spoil or overindulge them, often in a way that is seen as counterproductive or unsupportive.

namespace

to treat somebody with too much care and attention

đối xử với ai đó quá nhiều sự quan tâm và chú ý

Example:
  • She coddles him like a child.

    Cô chiều chuộng anh như một đứa trẻ.

Related words and phrases

to cook eggs in water slightly below boiling point

nấu trứng trong nước có nhiệt độ sôi thấp hơn một chút