Copper

Definition

Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a reddish-brown, malleable metal known for its high thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and the production of alloys like bronze and brass. It is essential in both industrial applications and biological systems, where it plays a role in various enzymes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːpər/
• Respelling: KAH-puhr

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒpə/
• Respelling: KOP-uh

The pronunciation of "copper" differs slightly in American and British English, particularly in the vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "copper" comes from the Latin word "cuprum," which is derived from "Cyprium aes," meaning "metal of Cyprus," because large deposits of copper were mined on the island of Cyprus in ancient times. The term entered the English language in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Coppery (adjective)
• Coppering (verb)
• Copperplate (noun)
• Decopperize (verb)
• Coppered (adjective)

Synonyms

• Bronze
• Brass
• Cuprum

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "copper" is used in various contexts. In metallurgy, it refers to the elemental metal used in manufacturing wires, pipes, and alloys like bronze and brass. It is also used in currency (e.g., copper coins) and in biological sciences, where copper is a crucial trace element in the functioning of enzymes. In everyday language, "copper" may also refer to a copper-plated object or, in some informal usage, to a police officer (a usage more common in British English).

Related Terms

• Brass: An alloy of copper and zinc.
• Bronze: An alloy of copper and tin.
• Cuprous oxide: A red oxide of copper used in antifouling paints and as a pigment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A reddish-brown metal known for its high conductivity: Refers to the chemical element used in wiring, plumbing, and alloys.
  • Example: "Copper is used extensively in electrical wiring due to its excellent conductivity."
• A copper coin: Informally used to refer to coins made of copper or copper alloys.
  • Example: "He found a rare copper coin from the 18th century."
• A police officer (British informal): In colloquial British English, "copper" can be used to refer to a police officer.
  • Example: "The coppers arrived at the scene within minutes."