First Known Use: 1561
Dictionary
filch
verb \ˈfilch\
: to steal (something that is small or that has little value)
Full Definition of FILCH
transitive verb
: to appropriate furtively or casually <filch a cookie>
See filch defined for English-language learners
See filch defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of FILCH
Middle English
Related to FILCH
Synonym Discussion of FILCH
steal, pilfer, filch, purloin mean to take from another without right or without detection. steal may apply to any surreptitious taking of something and differs from the other terms by commonly applying to intangibles as well as material things <steal jewels> <stole a look at the gifts>. pilfer implies stealing repeatedly in small amounts <pilfered from his employer>. filch adds a suggestion of snatching quickly and surreptitiously <filched an apple from the tray>. purloin stresses removing or carrying off for one's own use or purposes <printed a purloined document>.
FILCHING Defined for Kids
filch
verb \ˈfilch\
filchedfilch·ing
Definition of FILCH for Kids
: to steal in a sneaky way
Learn More About FILCH
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: file (noun)Previous Word in the Dictionary: filbert wormAll Words Near: filch
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up filch? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).