Copper-bottomed

Origin

From the copper sheathing applied to the bottom of a wooden ship to prevent damage from marine organisms. In literal sense 18th century, in figurative sense attested since at least 1807.

Phrase Finder|copper-bottomed|Copper-bottomed

Full definition of copper-bottomed

Adjective

1. Having lower parts made of or covered by copper (especially of a ship or cookware).
2. (British, idiomatic) Thoroughly reliable.
• 1807, Washington Irving, Salmagundi:The copper-bottomed angel at Messrs. Paff’s in Broadway.

Usage notes

Related term copperfasten used with similar meaning, but different nuance – copper-bottomed means “reliable, trustworthy”, while copper-fastened means “secured, unambiguous”.

Related terms

• copperfasten