Copy \Cop"y\ (k[o^]p"[y^]), n.; pl. Copies (-[i^]z). [F. copie, fr. L. copia abundance, number, LL. also, a transcript; co- + the root of opes riches. See Opulent, and cf. Copious.]

1. An abundance or plenty of anything. [Obs.]

She was blessed with no more copy of wit, but to serve his humor thus. --B. Jonson.

2. An imitation, transcript, or reproduction of an original work; as, a copy of a letter, an engraving, a painting, or a statue.

I have not the vanity to think my copy equal to the original. --Denham.

3. An individual book, or a single set of books containing the works of an author; as, a copy of the Bible; a copy of the works of Addison.

4. That which is to be imitated, transcribed, or reproduced; a pattern, model, or example; as, his virtues are an excellent copy for imitation.

Let him first learn to write, after a copy, all the letters. --Holder.

5. (print.) Manuscript or printed matter to be set up in type; as, the printers are calling for more copy.

6. A writing paper of a particular size. Same as Bastard. See under Paper.

7. Copyhold; tenure; lease. [Obs.]

--Shak.

Copy book, a book in which copies are written or printed for learners to imitate.

Examined copies (Law), those which have been compared with the originals.

Exemplified copies, those which are attested under seal of a court.

Certified or Office copies, those which are made or attested by officers having charge of the originals, and authorized to give copies officially. --Abbot.

Syn: Imitation; transcript; duplicate; counterfeit.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)