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

Derived Forms

• ˈpilfering, noun
• ˈpilferer, noun

Other Words From

• pilfer·er noun
• un·pilfered 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

Some of Allen’s pilfered equipment included 43 enhanced night vision goggles.

From Los Angeles Times

Sitting just a few feet away it appears MacCallum's sometimes daily pilfering took place right in front of them.

From BBC

This time, they burst through the double doors and pilfered snacks, leaving a trail of candy and corn nuts behind them.

From Los Angeles Times

Ohtani seems to steal second or third base any time he pleases, so pilfering five more is entirely plausible.

From Los Angeles Times

The big internet and social media platforms have been grabbing journalists’ work without paying for it and building their own profitable advertising programs around the pilfered articles.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• filch
• purloin
• swipe