1 cop out | Definition of cop out
Logo
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

cop-out

noun
\ ˈkäp-ˌau̇t How to pronounce cop-out (audio) \

Definition of cop-out

 (Entry 1 of 2)

1 : the act or an instance of copping out
2 : an excuse or means for copping out : pretext
3 : a person who cops out

cop out

verb
copped out; copping out; cops out

Definition of cop out (Entry 2 of 2)

intransitive verb

1 : to back out (as of an unwanted responsibility) cop out on jury duty
2 : to avoid or neglect problems, responsibilities, or commitments accused the mayor of copping out on the issue
Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about cop-out

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of cop-out in a Sentence

Verb

 don't cop out on your promise to pay for the damage

First Known Use of cop-out

Noun

circa 1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1952, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for cop-out

cop-out

noun
How to pronounce cop out (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of cop-out

informal + disapproving
: an excuse for not doing something
: something that avoids dealing with a problem in an appropriate way

More from Merriam-Webster on cop-out

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with cop-out

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for cop-out

WORD OF THE DAY

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!