pilfer — to steal things of little value or in small quantities
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to steal things of little value or in small quantities
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpɪlfər/
Example Sentences
- My roommate keeps pilfering my snacks from the fridge.
- The security camera caught him pilfering pens from the reception desk.
- She was accused of pilfering coins from the charity box.
pilfer
VERB[/ˈpɪlfər/]
to steal things of little value or in small quantities
a person in casual clothes quietly reaches into someone's lunch bag on the counter, pulling out a small snack. They glance around nervously while slipping the item into their pocket. Earlier, they had already taken a few coins from a tip jar and some office supplies from a nearby desk. A coworker enters the break room from behind, beginning to notice the suspicious behavior. The person tries to act natural while still holding the stolen snack. someone stealing things of little value in small quantities
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle French pelfrer, originally meaning 'to divide spoils or booty among soldiers.' Over time, it evolved to mean stealing small items secretly.
Breakdown
pelfrer (Middle French root meaning 'to take spoils') + -er (verb ending)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My roommate keeps pilfering my snacks from the fridge.”
“The security camera caught him pilfering pens from the reception desk.”
“She was accused of pilfering coins from the charity box.”
“The squirrel has been pilfering birdseed from our feeder all week.”
📚Related Words
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