Chinese copy

noun

often offensive; see usage paragraph below
: an exact imitation or duplicate that includes defects as well as desired qualities
Usage of Chinese Copy

While Chinese copy is sometimes used playfully (as to refer to a Chinese person who looks very much like a non-Chinese celebrity) it is frequently considered offensive in its implication that a copy made in China is not made with attention and care.

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Chinese copy was in 1844

Dictionary Entries Near Chinese copy

Cite this Entry

“Chinese copy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chinese%20copy. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!