pilfer

verb pil·fer \ˈpil-fər\

: to steal things that are not very valuable or to steal a small amount of something

pil·feredpil·fer·ing \-f(ə-)riŋ\

Full Definition of PILFER

intransitive verb

: steal; especially : to steal stealthily in small amounts and often again and again

transitive verb

: steal; especially : to steal in small quantities

— pil·fer·able \-f(ə-)rə-bəl\ adjective

— pil·fer·age \-f(ə-)rij\ noun

— pil·fer·er \-fər-ər\ noun

— pil·fer·proof \-ˌprüf\ adjective

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Origin of PILFER

Middle French pelfrer, from pelfre booty

First Known Use: circa 1548

Related to PILFER

Synonyms: appropriate, boost [slang], filch, heist, hook, lift, misappropriate, nick [British slang], nip, steal, pinch, pocket, purloin, rip off, snitch, swipe, thieve

Synonym Discussion of PILFER

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>.

PILFER Defined for Kids