The word "coddles" is spelled with two letter "d"s, despite only one being pronounced. This can be seen in its phonetic transcription: /ˈkɑd(ə)lz/. The first "d" is pronounced as a hard "d" sound, while the second "d" is silent. The word is derived from the Middle English word "codel", meaning "to cook in water below boiling point". The extra "d" was added over time to reflect changes in spelling conventions, despite not changing the pronunciation.
Coddles is a verb that refers to the act of treating someone with excessive care, indulgence, or softness. It often involves being excessively protective, nurturing, or affectionate towards someone, often to the point of pampering or spoiling them. This term can also be used to describe the act of cooking something gently or slowly by submerging it in a simmering liquid, such as eggs in lightly boiling water.
In terms of its figurative meaning, coddling someone implies shielding or sheltering them from any discomfort, challenge, or adversity, often resulting in the person becoming overly dependent or lacking resilience. The act of coddling can inhibit personal growth, as it hinders individuals from developing the necessary skills or coping mechanisms required to face life's difficulties.
Coddling can be seen in various contexts, such as parenting, where overly protective parents may shield their children from any potential harm or disappointment. Similarly, it can be applied in interpersonal relationships, where one person excessively dotes on or spoils their partner, lacking boundaries or allowing them to develop autonomy.
In cooking, coddling typically refers to gently boiling eggs or other delicate foods in water just below the boiling point. This technique is often used to achieve a specific consistency, such as a slightly runny yolk or a soft texture in certain dishes.
The word "coddles" can be traced back to the Middle English term "codel" or "cudel", which meant "boiled eggs" or "cooked eggs". This Middle English term is derived from the Old English word "coddanian", which referred to the act of cooking or boiling. Over time, the word "coddles" came to encompass more than just eggs and is now used to describe the act of indulging, pampering, or treating someone or something in a gentle or overprotective manner.