copper Meaning, Definition & Usage
-
noun a ductile malleable reddish-brown corrosion-resistant diamagnetic metallic element; occurs in various minerals but is the only metal that occurs abundantly in large masses; used as an electrical and thermal conductor
Cu; atomic number 29.
-
noun a copper penny
-
noun uncomplimentary terms for a policeman
pig; cop; fuzz; bull.
-
noun a reddish-brown color resembling the color of polished copper
copper color.
-
noun any of various small butterflies of the family Lycaenidae having coppery wings
-
verb coat with a layer of copper
WordNet
Cop"per noun
Etymology
OE.Definitions
-
A common metal of a reddish color, both ductile and malleable, and very tenacious. It is one of the best conductors of heat and electricity. Symbol Cu. Atomic weight 63.3. It is one of the most useful metals in itself, and also in its alloys, brass and bronze. ✍ Copper is the only metal which occurs native abundantly in large masses; it is found also in various ores, of which the most important are chalcopyrite, chalcocite, cuprite, and malachite. Copper mixed with tin forms bell metal; with a smaller proportion, bronze; and with zinc, it forms brass, pinchbeck, and other alloys. -
A coin made of copper; a penny, cent, or other minor coin of copper. Colloq.My friends filled my pockets with coppers. Franklin.
-
A vessel, especially a large boiler, made of copper. - pl. Specifically
(Naut.) ,the boilers in the galley for cooking; as, a ship's .coppers ✍ Copper is often used adjectively, commonly in the sense of made or consisting of copper, or resembling copper; as, a copper boiler, tube, etc. All in a hot and copper sky. Coleridge.
It is sometimes written in combination; as, copperplate, coppersmith, copper-colored.
Cop"per transitive verb
Wordforms
Definitions
To cover or coat with copper; to sheathe with sheets of copper; as, to .copper a ship
