Pilfer: meaning, definitions and examples

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 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 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 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 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 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