Word

copper

noun C1

/ˈkɒpə/

Meanings

noun

a reddish-brown metal used widely for electrical wiring, pipes, and coins

noun

a police officer (informal)

Definition

Copper is a reddish-brown metal that conducts heat and electricity very well.

Copper is a common metal used in wiring, plumbing, and many electronic devices because it carries electricity efficiently. It has a distinctive reddish-brown color and can be shaped into wires, sheets, or pipes. Over time, it can develop a green surface layer when exposed to air and moisture.

Examples

I chose copper for the kitchen backsplash because it ages beautifully and conducts heat away from the stove area.
You can usually spot copper by its warm, reddish tone and the way it tarnishes after handling.
He replaced the old aluminum cable with copper to reduce resistance and improve reliability.
She watched the copper approach and then stepped aside to let the officer pass through the crowd.
They recovered several kilograms of copper from the demolished building and sorted it for recycling.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse copper with bronze or brass, but copper is a pure metal while bronze and brass are alloys.