Wrap in cotton wool

Meaning

The idiom "wrap in cotton wool" means to treat someone or something with extreme care and attention, often going beyond what is necessary or appropriate. The phrase connotes a level of protection and pampering that is designed to create a sense of security and ease.

Usage

• As a parent, I try to wrap my child in cotton wool whenever they're sick so that they feel comfortable and safe.
• The company wrapped its employees in cotton wool during the pandemic by offering remote work options and generous benefits.
• The manager wrapped his team in cotton wool by assigning them easier tasks and providing ample support to help them succeed.
• The government has wrapped the city in cotton wool by imposing strict lockdown measures and providing financial assistance to businesses.
• As a lover, I wrap my partner in cotton wool by showering them with affection and making sure they never feel alone or vulnerable.

Roots and History

The idiom "wrap in cotton wool" has been used in English since the 19th century. It originally referred to swaddling infants in cotton cloth to keep them warm and protect them from injury during sleep. Over time, the phrase evolved to refer to any form of special protection or coddling, as well as to people who are overly sensitive or easily upset.

Synonyms in English

• Spoil someone
• Treat someone with kid gloves
• coddle someone
• pamper someone
• babysit someone

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "Wrappage" (to wrap up or envelop)
• German: "Schutzgurt" (protective belt)
• Spanish: "Poderosa maternidad" (powerful motherhood)
• Italian: "Trattamento speciale" (special treatment)
• Portuguese: "Envolvimento de leno" (wrapping in cotton cloth)

Similar Idioms

• rake over the coals

• without further ado

• class clown