Synonyms for

Cops

Verb / kɑ:ps / Another word for cops — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Cops is a slang term for police officers.

Synonyms & similar words

snitch thieve glom nail apprehend pickup bull copper fuzz knockoff arrest collar hook pig nab cop police constables officers patrolmen troopers sheriffs detectives fuzz coppers flatfoots gumshoes bulls heat bluecoats blues jacks

Synonyms by register

Formal

police officers law enforcement officers constabulary gendarmerie

Informal

cops fuzz pigs the heat boys in blue

Literary

guardians of the peace keepers of the law ministers of justice

Antonyms

civilians citizens lawbreakers criminals suspects offenders

Common collocations

  • call the cops
  • call the cops on
  • cops and robbers
  • plainclothes cops
  • rookie cops
  • undercover cops
  • on-duty cops
  • retired cops

Word family

noun cop
verb cop
adjective cop-like

Usage note

Cops is an informal term for police officers. While widely understood, it can be considered disrespectful or offensive in formal contexts or when speaking directly to law enforcement.

Example sentences

  1. The cops chased after the bank robber.
  2. I saw two cops on the corner.
  3. The cops are here to keep us safe.
  4. The cops arrested the suspect.
  5. The cops are investigating the crime scene.

Quotes

  • “The cops are not here to create disorder, they're here to preserve disorder.” - Richard J. Daley
  • “To be a cop is to be prepared for almost anything, at any moment, and willing to face it. Cops are not perfect, but then no human beings are; however, being a cop requires a personal commitment that sets them apart from the rest of the population.” - Russel L. Honoré
  • “The cops are the front line of civil society.” - Dennis Prager

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