copes; coped; coping
: to deal with problems and difficult situations and try to come up with solutions
The trial has been difficult, but I'm learning to cope.
—often + withYou'll just have to cope with the situation.
The book is about coping with stress.
He says he can no longer cope with the demands of the job.
plural copes
: a long, loose piece of clothing that is worn by a priest on special occasions
Cite this Entry
“Cope.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/cope. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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