Definition of the word cop off

The phrase "cop off" is a British slang term that has origins dating back to the early 20th century. It's believed to have originated from the expression "copped a dose", which referred to someone who had been successfully apprehended by the police. The word "dose" in this context is referring to an illness, specifically the negative impact of drug use on one's physical and mental health. The term "copped a dose" was commonly used within drug culture to describe an individual who had experienced adverse effects from their drug use. Over time, the term "copped a dose" became slang for being caught or arrested by the police. However, instead of using the entire phrase, people began shortening it to "copped off", which is where we get the term we know today. In essence, the phrase "copped off" has evolved significantly from its original pharmaceutical roots, but it remains a popular slang term in modern British English. It's often used to describe someone who has been taken advantage of or deceived, as well as in the context of being caught by the police.