Definitions

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • verb idiomatic To avoid or shirk, either by failing to perform, or by performing in a grossly insufficient, negligent, or superficial 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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Comments

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  • 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

  • 4 An officer of the constabulary not permitted to enter.

    June 18, 2008