noun
copper
An informal term for a police officer.
The copper at the corner waves us across the street.
Etymology
Cop means to catch or seize, and -er names the person doing it. Copper applies that catching role to a police officer, especially in the context of arrest.
More examples
- A copper knocks on our door to ask about the noise.
- Two coppers are talking to the driver of the truck.
- He calls every police officer a copper.
Forms
copper · coppers