E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Copper (A).
A policeman. Said to be so called from the copper badge which Fernando Wood, of New York, appointed them to wear; but more likely a variant of “cop” (q.v.).
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“There were cries of ‘Coppers, Coppers!’ in the yard, and then a violent struggle… . . Whoever it was that was wanted had been evidently sécured and dragged off to gaol.’—T. Terrell: Lady Delmar, 1.
