Meaning & Definition of word "Cooper"

Cooper

/ˈkuːpər/

1. A cooper is a craftsman who makes barrels, tubs, vats, and other wooden containers, typically by assembling staves and using metal hoops.
- Example: The cooper skillfully shaped the staves to create a perfect barrel for aging wine.
2. The term "cooper" can also refer to a person who engages in the profession of building or repairing wooden containers.
- Example: After completing his apprenticeship, he became a respected cooper in the local brewery.
3. Historically, a cooper would have been essential for storing liquids, as wooden barrels were widely used.
- Example: In the past, the cooper played a crucial role in supplying barrels for merchants to transport goods.
4. The craft of a cooper requires precision and an understanding of wood's properties.
- Example: Learning the old craft of a cooper was challenging, but he was determined to master it.
5. The cooper's workshop was filled with the aroma of fresh-cut wood and the sound of tools at work.
- Example: Visitors were fascinated by the cooper's demonstrations of making barrels from scratch.

Middle English: from Old French 'couper', meaning 'to cut', referring to the wooden staves used for making barrels.

cooper's tools:

The tools and equipment used by a cooper for making barrels.

as good as a cooper:

Describing someone with great skill or precision in their work.

barrel:

A cylindrical container made of wood, typically used for storing liquids.

cask:

A large container for storing liquids, often similar to a barrel.

stave:

A narrow piece of wood that forms the sides of a barrel.

Meaning: To 'go cooper' means to make something out of wood.

Example Sentence: He decided to go cooper and make his own furniture.

Meaning: In some circles, 'cooper' can refer informally to someone who is good at crafts.

Example Sentence: She's a real cooper when it comes to woodworking.