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Pilfering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pilfering

[หˆpษชlfษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

theft act

Pilfering refers to the act of stealing items of relatively low value. This crime often involves taking small things from a place, usually without the owner's knowledge. It's typically performed by individuals who are in a position of trust or access, such as employees in a workplace. Although it may seem insignificant compared to larger thefts, pilfering can accumulate to substantial losses over time, significantly impacting businesses and organizations.

Synonyms

filching, snatching, stealing, taking, thieving.

Examples of usage

  • The employee was caught pilfering office supplies.
  • She was found guilty of pilfering from the donation box.
  • His habit of pilfering snacks from the kitchen led to his dismissal.

Translations

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Origin of 'pilfering'

The word 'pilfering' originates from the Middle English 'pilfren', which in turn comes from the Old French 'pillefer', meaning to steal or to rob. It is believed to trace back to the Latin term 'pฤซlare', which means to strip, plunder, or rob. This Latin root is related to the word 'pilum', referring to a spear or javelin, emphasizing the notion of taking or seizing something forcibly. Over the centuries, the term has evolved to specifically denote the act of stealing small items, especially in a gradual manner. Pilfering is often viewed as a milder form of theft, yet it can carry legal consequences and contribute to larger issues of theft within organizations. Throughout history, pilfering has been commonly associated with employees in various sectors where trust and access to goods are prevalent.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,717, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.