\ ˈkäp-ˌau̇t 
\
\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
verbcopped 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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More Definitions for cop-out
cop-out
nounEnglish 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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