copper

English

/ˈkɔp.ə/, /ˈkɒp.ə/, /ˈkɑ.pɚ/

noun
Definitions
  • (uncountable) A reddish-brown, malleable, ductile metallic element with high electrical and thermal conductivity, symbol Cu, and atomic number 29.
  • The reddish-brown colour/color of copper.
  • (countable) Any of various specialized items that are made of copper, where the use of copper is either traditional or vital to the function of the item.
  • (entomology) Any of various lycaenid butterflies with copper-coloured upperwings, especially those of the genera and .

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English coper inherited from Old English coper derived from Latin cuprum (copper), aes Cyprium (Cyprian brass) derived from Ancient Greek Κύπρος (Cyprus).

Origin

Ancient Greek

Κύπρος

Gloss

Cyprus

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms