coping mechanism
noun
an adaptation to environmental stress that is based on conscious or unconscious choice and that enhances control over behavior or gives psychological comfort.
coping mechanisms
-
pluralof coping mechanism.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It’s the antithesis of all the coping mechanisms that our culture almost demands you adopt.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 17, 2026
To be honest, I wish I hadn’t developed so many coping mechanisms to offset my shyness.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 7, 2026
For some, a combination of the two coping mechanisms works best.
From Slate ● Mar. 15, 2026
"I did try and ask some friends and family for coping mechanisms and I didn't get anywhere near as effective answers as I did from AI."
From BBC ● Jan. 30, 2026
In the next three sessions, we talked about patterns of behavior, family and workplace dynamics and coping mechanisms.
From Salon ● Sep. 22, 2025
