cobweb
UK: ˈkɒbwɛb | US: ˈkɑːbwɛb
n. a spider's web, especially an old or dusty one
n. something intricate, delicate, or insubstantial
cobweb = cob<spider (archaic)> + web<woven structure>
- cob (archaic term for "spider," from Middle English coppe, related to Old English ātorcoppe "poison-head," referring to spiders)
- web (from Old English webb, meaning "woven fabric" or "net," derived from Proto-Germanic wabjam)
Etymology Origin:
The word "cobweb" originates from Middle English coppeweb, combining coppe (an old term for spider) and web. Over time, coppe evolved into "cob," while "web" retained its meaning. The term originally referred to any spider's web but now often implies an old or abandoned one, evoking imagery of dust and neglect.
The attic was filled with cobwebs stretching across the beams.
She brushed away the cobweb clinging to the window frame.
His plan was as fragile as a cobweb, easily torn apart.
A single cobweb glistened with dew in the morning light.
The old bookshelf was covered in layers of cobwebs.