noun

cop

cop, bobby, copper

He called the cops when he saw the burglar.

He called the cops when he saw the burglar.

a/the cop A cop pulled him over for speeding.

Synonyms: police officer, officer, bobby

Short for 'copper', possibly from the verb 'to cop' (to catch) or from the copper badges worn by early police officers.

'Cop' is an informal word. Use 'police officer' in formal situations.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.