pickpocket

[ pik-pok-it ]

noun

1. a person who steals money, wallets, etc., from the pockets of people, as in crowded public places.

verb (used with object)

1. to steal (a wallet, money, etc.) in the manner of a pickpocket.
2. to steal from (a person) in the manner of a pickpocket.

pickpocket

/ ˈpɪkˌpɒkɪt /

noun

1. a person who steals from the pockets or handbags of others in public places

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickpocket¹

First recorded in 1585–95; pick ¹ + pocket

Example Sentences

Just be careful who you pickpocket.

From Los Angeles Times

Just be careful who you pickpocket.

From Los Angeles Times

Her shouts of “Attenzione, borseggiatrici! Attenzione, pickpocket!” have become a meme.

From New York Times

He said, “You are … ‘attenzione, pickpocket!’”

From New York Times

In 2019, The Economist reported that the group was responsible for a third of all pickpocket arrests made in Venice.

From New York Times

Related Words

• thief