newyork.localmean.com/cop
Cop
KOP
Local meaning
To get, obtain, or buy something, as in copping tickets, food, clothing, or another wanted item.
The verb is older and much broader than New York, but it remains common in city, fashion, sneaker, and music conversation. Context separates this verb from cop meaning police officer.
Example in context
- “I’m trying to cop tickets before they sell out.”
How it is used
Widespread English slang with strong circulation in New York streetwear and music contexts.
casual, purposeful
shopping, tickets, fashion, food, online drops
Widespread English slang with strong circulation in New York streetwear and music contexts.
Cop can also mean steal in some contexts, so the sentence must show whether the item is being purchased or taken.
Spelling and scope
Widespread English slang with strong circulation in New York streetwear and music contexts.
- Search forms
cop slang buycop a pair meaningcopped tickets
LocalMean keeps common search spellings discoverable without claiming that every borough, community, or generation uses one written form.
Frequently asked questions
Does cop mean buy?
Often, yes. To cop an item can mean to obtain or purchase it.
Can cop also mean steal?
Yes. The verb has several slang senses, so context is essential.
Read next
All words →Evidence and further reading
These sources support the regional association, dictionary sense, or broader spread. The entry remains open to correction from New York speakers and qualified reviewers.
- copMerriam-Webster
Dictionary senses of cop as obtaining, purchasing, or stealing something.
- The Life Cycle of Internet SlangarXiv
Research on how slang spreads, changes, and becomes less locally exclusive online.