plural chrysalises also chrysalides
krɪˈsæləˌdiːz
biology
1
: a moth or butterfly at the stage of growth when it is turning into an adult and is enclosed in a hard case
2
: a hard case that protects a moth or butterfly while it is turning into an adult
Cite this Entry
“Chrysalis.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/chrysalis. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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