carbon copy

noun

1. 1. a duplicate of anything written or typed, made by using a photocopier or, formerly, by using carbon paper. cc

   2. a copy of an email or other electronic document that is sent to one or more people in addition to the primary addressee. cc

2. a near or exact duplicate of a given person or thing; replica.

   She's a carbon copy of her mother.

carbon copy

noun

1. Often shortened to: carbon. a duplicate copy of writing, typewriting, or drawing obtained by using carbon paper

2. informal,  a person or thing that is identical or very similar to another

Word History and Origins

Origin of carbon copy¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Idioms and Phrases

A person or thing that closely resembles another, as in Our grandson is a carbon copy of his dad. Originally this term meant a copy of a document made by using carbon paper. The linguistic transfer to other kinds of duplicate survived the demise of carbon paper (replaced by photocopiers, computer printers, and other more sophisticated devices). [c. 1870]

Example Sentences

Crisp’s team built a carbon copy of the original satellite, and it was launched successfully on July 2, 2014.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s not to say he’s a carbon copy of the Chiefs star.

From Los Angeles Times

Rhyse Martin's excellent kick from the touchline gave the hosts the lead they craved, and after Burgess' third try of the night, a carbon copy of his second, it looked like the win was secure.

From BBC

“This reads as almost a carbon copy of that order,” Nelson said.

From Los Angeles Times

Kids in her grade are “obsessed with TikTok” and posting videos of themselves that look to her like carbon copies.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• mirror image