Pronunciation: [kˈɒdə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "coddle" is spelled with a double "d" to indicate that the preceding vowel sound is pronounced with a short sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, this sound is written as /ɒ/, which is a short "o" sound. The "l" at the end of the word indicates that it is pronounced with a clear "l" sound, as opposed to a silent "e" at the end of the word. "Coddle" means to treat someone in an indulgent or overprotective way.
Coddle is a verb that typically means to treat someone in an indulgent or overly protective manner, often by providing them with unnecessary care and attention. It involves pampering or mollycoddling someone, shielding them from any kind of hardship or difficulty. When coddling someone, individuals may go to great lengths to ensure their comfort, well-being, and happiness, sometimes to an excessive degree.
In a broader sense, coddling can also refer to the process of gently cooking food by immersing it in hot water, such as when making soft-boiled eggs. This culinary term often implies cooking the food for a shorter period of time to retain its softness and tenderness, as opposed to boiling or simmering it vigorously.
The act of coddling often stems from a genuine desire to show love, affection, or concern for someone, but it can sometimes result in unintended negative consequences. Constant coddling may limit an individual's growth or development, hinder their independence, or prevent them from experiencing necessary challenges and learning opportunities. Therefore, coddling is not always considered a positive behavior, as it can be seen as overprotective or stifling.
Overall, to coddle implies providing unnecessary or excessive care or protection to someone, often with the intention of ensuring their comfort and happiness but potentially hindering their personal growth or independence in the process.
To pamper or treat delicately; to parboil; to soften by means of hot water.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "coddle" originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Middle English term "codel", meaning "boil gently" or "parboil". It is believed to have been borrowed from the Old Norse word "koddla", which has a similar meaning and can be traced back to the Old English word "coðlian" or "coðly", meaning "cook in water". The word "coddle" gradually evolved to refer to the act of babying or pampering someone, especially by overprotecting or indulging them.
