Definitions
from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.
- verb idiomatic To
avoid orshirk , either by failing to perform, or by performing in a grosslyinsufficient ,negligent , orsuperficial manner.
from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
- verb choose not to do something, as out of fear of failing
Etymologies
from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License
Probably from cop a plea
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Examples
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johnmperry commented on the word cop out
1 A failure to fulfill a commitment or responsibility or to face a difficulty squarely.
2 A person who fails to fulfill a commitment or responsibility.
3 An excuse for inaction or evasion.
June 17, 2008
bilby commented on the word cop out
4 An officer of the constabulary not permitted to enter.
June 18, 2008