noun

copula

KOP-yuh-luh

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Copula (noun) means a word, usually a verb, that links the subject of a sentence to what is said about it. Example: “In the sentence "The soup is cold", the verb "is" is the copula.”

noun

technical A word, usually a verb, that links the subject of a sentence to what is said about it.

"In the sentence "The soup is cold", the verb "is" is the copula."

"Many languages leave out the copula in short present-tense statements."

"Russian normally drops the copula in the present tense."

technical In statistics, a function that describes how two or more variables are related to one another.

"The analyst fitted a copula to model how the two share prices moved together."

"A copula lets you study dependence separately from the shape of each variable's own distribution."

"The course has a whole week on copulas."

How to use copula

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA linking word, usually a verb, that joins a subject to what is said about it.

When to use it

It is mainly a technical term used in grammar and statistics.

Memory tip

Check which field the writer is in, because grammar and statistics use the word for different things.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

cupola →

Common pairings

the English copula a copula model

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “copula” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

In the sentence "The soup is cold", the verb "is" is the _____.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin cōpula, meaning a connection or the linking of words, which comes from co- (together) and apere (to fasten). It is a doublet of couple.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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linking verb copular verb copulative

Related words

action verb

Rhymes for copula

Ula hula Tula uvula Paula Ursula nebula fibula Dracula spatula scapula arugula

See all rhymes for copula →

Frequently asked questions

What is a copula in grammar?

A copula is a word, usually a verb, that links the subject of a sentence to a predicate. The verb "be" is the standard example.

What is the plural of copula?

The plural can be either copulas or copulae.

How do you pronounce copula?

It is pronounced KOP-yuh-luh, with the stress on the first syllable.

What is the meaning of copula?

"copula" (noun) means a word, usually a verb, that links the subject of a sentence to what is said about it.

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