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.
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
Without effective coping mechanisms, the stress can build into chronic diagnoses, she said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 14, 2026
The egomania and the fabulism are coping mechanisms that will grow more extreme under pressure.
From Salon ● Jun. 2, 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
