cop

cop · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (informal) A police officer.

  2. 2.

    (informal) To receive or obtain, often something negative.

  3. 3.

    (informal) To admit or accept.

  4. 4.

    (slang) To steal.

Forms

plural: cops

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    cop out — to avoid responsibility
  • •
    cop a plea — to plead guilty to a lesser charge
  • •
    cop it — to be punished or criticized
  • •
    good cop, bad cop — interrogation technique
  • •
    not much cop — (British) not very good

Related words

See also: detective, law, officer, police
Synonyms: constable, officer, police officer, policeman

Etymology

Probably from "copper," slang for police officer, possibly from "cop" meaning to catch or capture, from Latin "capere" (to seize).