\ ˈkäp-ˌau̇t
\
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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)
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
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Synonyms for cop-out
Synonyms: Noun
- avoidance,
- dodging,
- ducking,
- eluding,
- elusion,
- escape,
- eschewal,
- eschewing,
- evasion,
- out,
- shaking,
- shunning
Synonyms: Verb
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Cite this Entry
“Cop-out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cop-out. Accessed 7 May. 2021.
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More Definitions for cop-out
cop-out
noun
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
See the full definition for cop-out in the English Language Learners Dictionary
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Time Traveler for cop-out
The first known use of cop-out was circa 1942
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