~ 1
■ noun
1》 a red-brown metal, the chemical element of atomic number 29, which is a good conductor of electricity and heat and is alloyed to form brass and bronze. (Symbol: Cu )
2》 ( ~s ) Brit. coins of low value made of ~ or bronze.
3》 Brit. dated a large ~ or iron container for boiling laundry.
4》 a reddish-brown colour.
5》 a small butterfly with bright reddish-brown wings. [ Lycaena phlaeas ( small ~ ) and related species.]
■ verb cover or coat with ~.
Derivatives
~y adjective
Origin
OE copor , coper , based on late L. cuprum , from L. cyprium aes 'Cyprus metal' (so named because Cyprus was the chief source).
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~ 2
■ noun Brit. informal a police officer.
Origin
C19: from cop 1 + -er 1 .