from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Coup'e \Cou`p['e]"\ (k[=oo]`p[asl]"), n. [F., fr. coup['e], p.
p. of couper to cut. See {Coppice}.]
1. The front compartment of a French diligence; also, the
front compartment (usually for three persons) of a car or
carriage on British railways.
[1913 Webster]
2. A four-wheeled enclosed carriage for two persons inside,
with an outside seat for the driver; -- so called because
giving the appearance of a larger carriage cut off.
[1913 Webster]
3. a two-door automobile with front seats and a luggage
compartment.
[WordNet 1.5]