Copper-cap, s. A metallic covering fixed upon the nipple of a percussion gun, containing a fulminating composition, which explodes by the action of the cock and ignites the powder in the barrel. Vide Percussion.
Copperas, s. A kind of vitriol.
Coppice, s. Low woods cut at stated times for fuel.
Copse, s. Short wood.
Copse, v. To preserve underwood.
Copulate, v. To come together as different sexes.
Copulation, s. The congress or embrace of the two sexes.
Coracle, s. A boat used in Wales by fishers.
Cordial, s. A medicine that increases the force of the heart, or quickens the circulation; any medicine that increases strength; any thing that comforts, gladdens, and exhilarates. Cordials are useful to give a temporary energy to the stomach and bowels, and stimulate the nervous system.
White says, “There is not a better cordial than about half a pint of good strong beer, with a little ginger grated into it. A wineglassful of brandy in half a pint of water is stronger, and may, on some occasions, be more useful; but I wish to impress on the reader, that, whenever a cordial appears necessary, we should give one of no greater strength than is sufficient to produce the desired effect; and it will be found, I think, that a much better effect may be produced by three or four small doses, or weak cordials, than by giving only one large dose.”