pickpocket — a person who steals from other people's pockets, especially in crowded places
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a person who steals from other people's pockets, especially in crowded places
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpɪkˌpɑːkɪt/
Example Sentences
- The magician used to be a pickpocket before he learned to steal hearts instead of wallets.
- Always keep your valuables in a secure place when traveling to avoid pickpockets.
- The pickpocket was so bad at his job that he accidentally returned more money than he stole.
pickpocket
NOUN[/ˈpɪkˌpɑːkɪt/]
a person who steals from other people's pockets, especially in crowded places

A sneaky pickpocket slips a wallet from a tourist's back pocket in the busy market.

The pickpocket in the thicket steals the ticket!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Pickpocket emerged in the 16th century from the combination of 'pick' (to take or steal) and 'pocket' (a pouch or bag). The term originally described the act of extracting coins one by one from a victim's pocket.
Breakdown
pick (to take or steal) + pocket (a pouch or garment compartment) = pickpocket (a person who steals from pockets).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The magician used to be a pickpocket before he learned to steal hearts instead of wallets.”
“Always keep your valuables in a secure place when traveling to avoid pickpockets.”
“The pickpocket was so bad at his job that he accidentally returned more money than he stole.”
“Police installed security cameras in areas known for pickpocket activity.”
“She was so paranoid about pickpockets that she sewed her pockets shut and forgot where she put her keys.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.