NAME

cp − copy

SYNOPSIS

cp file1 file2

cp file ... directory

DESCRIPTION

File1 is copied onto file2. The mode (read,write,execute privileges) and owner of file2 are preserved if it already existed.  If file2 did not exist, it is created and takes on the mode and privileges of file1. 

That is, you are prevented from copying a file onto a file that is not yours.  However, if you are copying a file onto a file that you do own, the mode of the source file is still preserved, but the ownership changes to you. 

If you are not the owner of file1, you must have at least "read" privileges or cp will not be able to open file1. 

In the second form of the command, one or more files are copied into the directory with their original file-names. 

Cp refuses to copy a file onto itself. 

EXAMPLE

cp alpha beta gamma /unisoft/barbara

places copies of the three files in the directory barbara. 

SEE ALSO

cat(1), pr(1), mv(1)

7th Edition  —  1/8/82