petit larceny

[ pet-ee ]

noun

, Law.

1. petty larceny.

petit larceny

noun

1. (formerly in England) the stealing of property valued at 12 pence or under. Abolished 1827
2. (in some states of the US) the theft of property having a value below a certain figure

Derived Forms

• petit larcenist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of petit larceny¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

In Vermont, where they lived, Miller faced allegations that they had broken into a neighbor’s house in May and stolen bottles of alcohol, resulting in charges of trespassing, felony burglary and petit larceny.

From New York Times

Mr. Rodriguez-Hernandez has been charged with grand larceny, petit larceny, receiving stolen goods, destruction of property, wearing body armor while committing a crime, and the unlawful wearing of police insignia.

From Washington Times

The “Fantastic Beasts” star appeared in Vermont Superior Court remotely with their lawyer for the arraignment to felony burglary and petit larceny.

From Los Angeles Times

Miller appeared Monday in Vermont Superior Court remotely with their lawyer for the arraignment to felony burglary and petit larceny.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr. Ortiz was also charged with petit larceny, the theft of something without high value.

From Washington Times