coppertone: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (Proper Noun as Brand)Informal, Proprietary
Quick answer
What does “coppertone” mean?
A proprietary brand name for a brand of sunscreen, commonly used to refer to that specific product.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proprietary brand name for a brand of sunscreen, commonly used to refer to that specific product.
Informally, can refer to a sun-kissed or bronzed tan reminiscent of the skin tone associated with the brand's marketing, especially in US usage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'suntan lotion' or 'sun cream' are generic terms; 'Coppertone' is recognized as a specific US brand. In the US, 'Coppertone' is a well-known, historic brand name that is sometimes used generically or allusively for tanning or sunscreen.
Connotations
UK: Primarily a foreign/US product brand. US: Strong nostalgic or cultural connotations related to summer, beach culture, and the famous advertising mascot (the little girl and the dog).
Frequency
Much more frequent in American English due to the brand's historical market dominance there. Very low frequency in UK English outside of specific brand reference.
Grammar
How to Use “coppertone” in a Sentence
Use [Coppertone] before a product noun (e.g., Coppertone lotion).Use [Coppertone] as a standalone noun for the brand.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coppertone” in a Sentence
adjective
American English
- She had that classic Coppertone glow after a week at the beach.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In marketing or consumer goods analysis: 'The Coppertone brand was acquired by Bayer in the 1970s.'
Academic
Rare, except in cultural studies or business history: 'The Coppertone advertisements reflected mid-20th century American ideals of leisure.'
Everyday
US: 'Don't forget your Coppertone!' UK: Extremely rare in everyday speech.
Technical
Not used. Dermatology would use terms like 'broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coppertone”
- Using 'coppertone' as a common noun uncapitalized (incorrect: 'I need some coppertone'; correct: 'I need some Coppertone').
- Assuming it is a standard English word rather than a brand name.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a trademarked brand name (Coppertone®). Its use as a common noun is informal and primarily American.
In formal writing, no. In casual US speech, some speakers might use it generically, but it is technically a brand reference, like using 'Kleenex' for tissues.
The historic advertising image of a little girl having her swimsuit pulled down by a small dog, revealing pale skin contrasted with a tanned back.
No, it is not standardly used as a verb (e.g., 'to coppertone' is not correct).
A proprietary brand name for a brand of sunscreen, commonly used to refer to that specific product.
Coppertone is usually informal, proprietary in register.
Coppertone: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒp.ə.təʊn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑː.pɚ.toʊn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[To have] a Coppertone tan (US, informal): To have a deep, even, 'perfect' tan.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of COPPER (a reddish-brown metal) + TONE (skin tone) = the brand for achieving a coppery skin tone.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE DESIRED TAN IS A METALLIC FINISH (copper-toned, bronzed).
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Coppertone' primarily classified as?