Pilfer: meaning, definitions and examples

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pilfer

[ˈpɪlfər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

stealing discreetly

To steal things, especially small things, without taking them all from one place at one time.

Synonyms

filch, purloin, snitch, steal, swipe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pilfer	Pilfer is used when taking small items or amounts over a period of time, often from a workplace. It often implies minor thefts. He was caught pilfering office supplies Employees reported pilfering snacks from the break room
steal	Steal is a general term for taking something without permission and can refer to both minor and major thefts. It is neutral in tone. Someone tried to steal my bike She was caught stealing money from the cash register
filch	Filch suggests a sneaky or sly theft, usually of something small or of little value. It has a somewhat secretive nuance. She filched a cookie from the jar when no one was looking The child filched a toy from the store
purloin	Purloin is a more formal term that implies stealing in a deceitful manner, often used in literary contexts. The documents were purloined from the office He purloined a rare book from the library
snitch	Snitch is often used informally and can have a negative connotation. It implies stealing something in a casual or petty manner. He snitched a piece of candy from his sister They snitched some fruit from the market stall
swipe	Swipe is an informal term often used for quick, opportunistic thefts. It has a casual tone and can sometimes be used humorously. He swiped his friend's phone as a joke The thief managed to swipe a wallet from the table

Examples of usage

He pilfered money from the cash register.
She pilfered office supplies from her workplace.
The thief pilfered jewelry from the store.
The pickpocket pilfered wallets from unsuspecting victims.
He was caught pilfering food from the kitchen.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term has roots in the mid-15th century from the Middle English word 'pilfre', meaning to steal.
It is likely influenced by the Old French word 'pillefer', which means to plunder or rob.
The word has evolved over time but still maintains its core meaning of taking something without permission.

Legal Context

In legal terms, pilfering is often considered a form of petty theft, involving small items rather than large-scale theft.
Consequences for pilfering in businesses can include termination or legal action due to violations of trust and property rights.
Many companies implement policies to deter pilfering, emphasizing the impact of even minor theft on overall operations.

Pop Culture

Pilfering has been a common theme in literature, portraying characters who stealthily take what they want, often leading to adventures or misadventures.
Movies often depict heist scenes where characters pilfer items, showcasing clever tactics and the thrill of the 'steal'.
In video games, players often engage in pilfering mechanics, where stealing items enhances gameplay and strategy.

Psychology

People may pilfer small items due to a sense of thrill or excitement, often linked to risk-taking behavior.
Psychological studies suggest that pilfering can sometimes stem from feelings of deprivation, leading individuals to take rather than ask.
The act of pilfering might also reflect deeper issues such as impulse control problems or a desire to assert dominance.

Historical Instances

Throughout history, pilfering has been associated with soldiers during times of war who often took items from local populations.
Records show that even famous historical figures, like pirates, engaged in pilfering, contributing to their notorious reputations.
In the agricultural era, pilfering was commonplace as people would take small quantities from fields, which often went unnoticed by landowners.

Translations

Translations of the word "pilfer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 furtar

🇮🇳 चोरी करना

🇩🇪 stehlen

🇮🇩 mencuri

🇺🇦 красти

🇵🇱 kraść

🇯🇵 盗む

🇫🇷 voler

🇪🇸 hurtar

🇹🇷 aşırmak

🇰🇷 훔치다

🇸🇦 يسرق

🇨🇿 krást

🇸🇰 kradnúť

🇨🇳 偷窃

🇸🇮 krasti

🇮🇸 stela

🇰🇿 ұрлау

🇬🇪 მოპარვა

🇦🇿 oğurlamaq

🇲🇽 hurtar

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,824, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
35821 fink
35822 hedonist
35823 steeling
35824 pilfer
35825 wale
35826 shampooing
35827 coercively
...