deep copy

• deep-copy

deep copy (plural deep copies)

1. (computing) A copy of a data structure duplicating not only the structure itself, but all structures to which it is linked.

   Don't try to make a deep copy of that: you'll pull in half the database.

• shallow copy

deep copy (third-person singular simple present deep copies, present participle deep copying, simple past and past participle deep copied)

1. (transitive) To make a deep copy of.

   I'd prefer to deep copy that in order to avoid complications with updates.

2. (intransitive) To make a deep copy.

   This is a situation where you either have to deep copy or handle the complication of updates.

• copy