carbon copy
1. A copy of a document that is made by placing a sheet of carbon paper under the original so that the print gets transferred from the original to the sheet of paper below it. Carbon copies are largely obsolete but are still used in some cases for receipts. Could you please make a carbon copy of that invoice? I need it for my records. Were you ever able to find the carbon copy of that receipt? Oh, we transitioned away from carbon copies ages ago, but I can print you off a copy if you need one.
2. To include additional recipients on an email message that is intended for, or directed to, another person. Often abbreviated as "cc." Please carbon copy me on that email to Janice. I want her to know I am aware of the situation. Obviously, I didn't mean to carbon copy the boss on that email complaining about her! Oh man, I'm mortified. Carbon copy Linda in Finance—she needs to see the latest projections too.
3. A person or thing that closely resembles someone or something else in looks or attributes. Even though they were born several years apart, Darren is a carbon copy of his brother. They have the same gait, mannerisms, and hairstyle. My goodness, you're a carbon copy of your mom. I almost called you by her name! Some of these knockoff watches are carbon copies for the real things, but they're poorly constructed and made from much cheaper materials.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
a carbon copy
COMMON If one person or thing is a carbon copy of another, the two people or things are identical, or very similar. Hugh was a carbon copy of his father, Edward; both had the same blond hair and easy charm. The town, almost a carbon copy of Gualdo, is best known for its mineral waters. Note: A carbon copy of a document is an exact copy of it which is made using carbon paper.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012