pilfer

[pil-fer]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to steal, especially in small quantities.

   Synonyms: appropriate, filch, purloin, thieve

pilfer

/ ˈpɪlfə /

verb

1. to steal (minor items), esp in small quantities

Other Word Forms

• pilfering noun
• pilferer noun
• unpilfered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilfer¹

1540–50; v. use of late Middle English pilfre booty < Middle French pelfre. See pelf

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilfer¹

C14 pylfre (n) from Old French pelfre booty; see _pelf

Example Sentences

Nick Frost pilfered two Lions line-outs as they turned the screw.

From BBC

The merchants, many of whom are based in L.A., have been locked in a yearslong legal battle with Brink’s over the value of their pilfered goods.

From Los Angeles Times

I think the American dream used to be realizable by a huge and booming middle class, and that's been pilfered.

From Salon

He would limit the pilfering to one to two cards, authorities said, leaving cash and other valuables undisturbed to not arouse suspicion.

From Los Angeles Times

From pilfering chips to swallowing whole starfish, gulls are known for their voracious appetites.

From BBC

Related Words

• filch 
• purloin 
• swipe