copula

noun

cop·​u·​la ˈkä-pyə-lə How to pronounce copula (audio)
: something that connects: such as
a
: the connecting link between subject and predicate of a proposition
b
: linking verb

Word History

Etymology

Latin, bond — more at couple

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of copula was in 1619

Dictionary Entries Near copula

copublish

copula

copulable

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Copula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/copula. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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Medical Definition

copula

noun
cop·​u·​la ˈkäp-yə-lə How to pronounce copula (audio)
plural copulas also copulae -ˌlē How to pronounce copula (audio)
1
: a connecting anatomical structure
2
: sexual union : copulation

More from Merriam-Webster on copula

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about copula

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