Catching or seizing something, or dealing with a difficult situation (as in 'copping out' meaning avoiding responsibility).
From Old French 'coper' meaning to strike or seize, possibly related to Latin 'colpus' meaning a blow. The word entered English in the 17th century with meanings around catching and seizing. Modern slang usage evolved through phrases like 'cop a plea' and 'copping out.'
Interestingly, 'cop' as slang for police officer comes from the same root—officers who 'caught' (copped) criminals. The word 'copping' has become incredibly flexible in modern slang: you can cop a feel, cop an attitude, or cop out, but they all trace back to the idea of seizing or taking something. It's remarkable how a word about physical grabbing became the language of evasion and attitude.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.