Pilfered Meaning: Definition and Examples
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pilfered
[ˈpɪlfərd ]
Definition
theft action
Pilfered refers to the act of stealing or taking something in small quantities, often secretly. It implies a sense of minor theft, usually of items that are not highly valuable. The term is often associated with stealing from a larger whole or taking advantage of a situation where items are left unattended. This word is commonly used to describe petty theft or stealing by individuals who may be in a desperate situation.
Synonyms
lift, rob, snatch, steal, take.
Examples of usage
- He pilfered small items from the store.
- She was caught pilfering snacks from the pantry.
- They pilfered office supplies for their personal use.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Charles Dickens' 'Oliver Twist', the protagonist experiences pilfering firsthand, highlighting the struggles of poverty.
- Many heist novels and films, such as 'Ocean's Eleven', feature characters who pilfer valuables from wealthy individuals.
- Pilfering is often used in fables and tales to teach moral lessons about honesty and consequences.
Psychology
- The act of pilfering can sometimes be linked to impulse control issues, where a person may struggle to resist the temptation to take things.
- Research has shown that people may pilfer more when they believe they won't get caught, indicating the role of perceived consequences.
- Some studies suggest that individuals may pilfer items that are low in value but high in emotional significance to them personally.
Social Commentary
- In many cultures, pilfering is viewed as a minor crime, often linked to social conditions like poverty and inequality.
- The phenomenon of pilfering can indicate societal issues, such as the availability of resources and economic disparity.
- Art and media often explore themes of pilfering as a reflection of human desperation and moral choices.
Pop Culture
- Popular TV shows like 'Breaking Bad' feature characters who pilfer, exploring moral ambiguity and the thrill of stealing.
- Video games often involve elements of pilfering as players take items to progress in a storyline or gain resources.
- Musicians have referenced pilfering in lyrics to highlight themes of rebellion, survival, and the fight against authority.
Origin of 'pilfered'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pilfered' comes from the Middle English word 'pilfrid', which meant to steal or take something gently.
- Related to the Old French word 'pelfre', which literally translates to 'booty' or 'loot', showing its connection to theft.
- The term has been used in English since the 15th century, highlighting a long history of informal stealing.
The word 'pilfer' originated in the early 16th century, believed to be derived from the Middle French term 'pelfrer', meaning to plunder or pilfer, which in turn comes from 'pelf', a term denoting money or goods obtained by dubious means. Its roots can be traced back further to Old French, where 'pelfe' referred to spoils or goods. The evolution of 'pilfer' indicates a shift towards minor theft as opposed to grand larceny, reflecting a narrower focus on smaller, often unnoticeable acts of theft in everyday life. As societies developed, the word was increasingly used to describe the actions of individuals who take items without authorization, particularly in lower-stakes scenarios compared to major theft or robbery.