hard copy

noun

1. copy, as computer output printed on paper, that can be read without using a special device (soft copy ).

2. copy that is finished and ready for the printer.

hard copy

noun

1. computer output printed on paper, as contrasted with machine-readable output such as magnetic tape

Other Word Forms

• hard-copy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hard copy¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

A spokesperson said each item was being taken to a warehouse in a secret location to be individually photographed, so that both a digital book and hard copy could be given to the Osbourne family.

From BBC

But the publishers won’t send hard copies to Russia or Belarus, because they say they can’t guarantee the book would get through customs.

From BBC

But users shouldn’t leave behind their hard copies just yet.

From Los Angeles Times

"HMV is not the only supplier benefitting from this resurgence of the hard copy, also seen in books."

From BBC

She keeps hard copies of the data in a large binder in her office, which the students combed through to look for stars of interest.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• printout