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Copping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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copping

[หˆkรคpษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

casual language

Copping is an informal term that often means obtaining or acquiring something, usually in a casual or nonchalant manner. In contemporary usage, it frequently refers to the act of purchasing items, especially sneakers or streetwear. It can also mean to take control of a situation or to master a particular skill or activity. The term originated from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and has since been adopted into broader slang usage.

Synonyms

acquiring, obtaining, purchasing, securing.

Examples of usage

  • I'm copping those new shoes tomorrow.
  • She was copping some trendy clothes at the sale.
  • He's copping skills in street art.
  • They were copping the vibe of the party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term gained popularity in rap and hip-hop lyrics, often referring to illegal activities.
  • It has appeared in various movies and TV shows, depicting characters involved in theft or crime.
  • 'Copping' can be found in modern slangs, particularly in youth culture, representing casual theft or getting away with something.

Psychology

  • Engaging in stealing reflects deeper psychological issues such as impulsivity or a need for control.
  • The thrill of 'copping' often comes from the adrenaline rush associated with breaking rules.
  • Some studies suggest that people who engage in petty theft may view it as a challenge or game rather than criminal behavior.

Literature

  • 'Copping' has been explored in literature as a metaphor for deeper themes of desire, loss, and morality.
  • In some novels, the act of copping represents a character's fall from grace or a moral decline.
  • Classic novels often use minor thefts to highlight social issues and character motivations.

Sociology

  • In urban studies, 'copping' reflects socioeconomic factors that drive individuals to steal.
  • Social norms in certain communities may influence attitudes toward theft, normalizing 'copping' under certain circumstances.
  • Peer pressure among youth can lead to a perception that 'copping' is an acceptable behavior.

Origin of 'copping'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'copping' comes from the 17th-century word 'cop,' which meant to seize or take.
  • The slang usage developed in the 1960s within urban communities, where it became associated with crime.
  • It has also been used in legal contexts to describe the act of apprehending or capturing someone.

The term 'copping' has its roots in the early 20th century and is derived from the word 'cop,' which in slang means to take or to capture. The word 'cop' itself traces back to the Latin word 'capere,' meaning to seize or take. Over the decades, 'copping' evolved within urban and youth cultures, particularly within hip-hop and streetwear communities. The term gained significant traction in the 2010s with the rise of sneaker culture, where fans often use the term to describe their efforts in acquiring limited edition sneakers. Today, 'copping' has expanded beyond just shoes and clothing, encompassing a broader range of contexts including music, art, and lifestyle.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,374, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.