Copy

Definition

Copy refers to a reproduction or imitation of an original object, document, or work. It can also refer to the content produced for advertising, media, or written works. Additionally, as a verb, it denotes the action of duplicating or imitating something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːpi/
• Respelling: KAH-pee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒpi/
• Respelling: KOP-ee

Etymology

The word "copy" originates from the Latin word "copia," meaning "abundance, wealth, or transcript." This term later evolved in Medieval Latin to refer to a "written transcript," entering Middle English in the 14th century with similar meanings of duplication or reproduction.

Derivatives

• Copying (noun/verb)
• Copycat (noun/adjective)
• Copier (noun)
• Recopy (verb)
• Copyist (noun)

Synonyms

• Duplicate
• Reproduction
• Imitation

Antonyms

• Original
• Prototype
• Unique

Usage

The term "copy" is commonly used to refer to text for media or advertising, as in "ad copy." It is also frequently used in the context of technology and documentation to describe the act of duplicating text, files, or other digital content. For example, "She made a copy of the report for each team member."

Related Terms

• Replica: An exact reproduction of an original item.
• Photocopy: A duplicate of a document produced by a photocopier.
• Plagiarism: The practice of taking someone else’s work or ideas and passing them off as one's own.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An imitation or reproduction of an original item: Refers to something made to resemble or replicate an original.
  • Example: "He kept a copy of the letter for his records."
• Text intended for media or advertising: Describes written material used for promotional purposes.
  • Example: "The advertising copy was designed to attract customers."

Verb

• To duplicate or reproduce: Refers to the action of making a duplicate of something.
  • Example: "Please copy this document for the meeting."
• To imitate or replicate someone’s actions or words: Indicates the act of mimicking or reproducing another’s behavior or style.
  • Example: "The child tried to copy his older sibling’s movements."