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Shoplifting: meaning, definitions and examples

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shoplifting

 

[ ˈʃɒpˌlɪftɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

theft act

Shoplifting is the act of stealing goods from a retail store. It usually involves the concealment of items with the intent to take them without paying. This illegal activity can lead to criminal charges and penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Store owners often take measures to prevent shoplifting, such as employing security personnel and using surveillance systems.

Synonyms

larceny, stealing, theft

Examples of usage

  • He was caught shoplifting a pair of shoes.
  • The store increased security measures to combat shoplifting.
  • Shoplifting can lead to serious legal consequences.
  • Many retailers report losses due to shoplifting every year.

Translations

Translations of the word "shoplifting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 furto em loja

🇮🇳 दुकान से चोरी

🇩🇪 Ladendiebstahl

🇮🇩 pencurian di toko

🇺🇦 крадіжка в магазині

🇵🇱 kradzież sklepowa

🇯🇵 万引き

🇫🇷 vol à l'étalage

🇪🇸 robo en tienda

🇹🇷 mağaza hırsızlığı

🇰🇷 상점 도둑질

🇸🇦 سرقة المتجر

🇨🇿 krádež v obchodě

🇸🇰 krádež v obchode

🇨🇳 商店盗窃

🇸🇮 kraja v trgovini

🇮🇸 verslunarsnápur

🇰🇿 дүкеннен ұрлау

🇬🇪 მაღაზიის ქურდობა

🇦🇿 mağaza oğurluğu

🇲🇽 robo en tienda

Word origin

The term 'shoplifting' originated in the 19th century, combining the word 'shop', derived from the Old English 'sceppe', meaning a place where goods are sold, and 'lifting', which refers to the act of stealing or lifting items. The phrase began to gain popularity as retail shopping became more common, with stores implementing various security measures. Initially, the term referred to any form of stealing in a shop setting, but over time, it specifically came to describe the act of stealing from stores. Legislation regarding shoplifting has evolved, reflecting the growing concern of retailers about the impact of theft on their businesses. Today, shoplifting is regarded seriously by law enforcement, with various legal consequences aimed at deterring individuals from committing this crime.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,054, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.