pilferage

[ pil-fer-ij ]

noun

1. the act or practice of pilfering; petty theft.
2. something that is pilfered.

pilferage

/ ˈpɪlfərɪdʒ /

noun

1. the act or practice of stealing small quantities or articles
2. the amount so stolen

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilferage¹

First recorded in 1620–30; pilfer + -age

Example Sentences

Then there’s internal theft — pilferage or embezzlement by employees.

From Los Angeles Times

Konchalski criticized “the rampant pilferage of talent” as “craven” before wishing subscribers continued success.

From New York Times

"The bigger issue is a pilferage issue and it may not necessarily be around cabin crew," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

From BBC

The debate appears to have intensified after a column in the Kenyan newspaper Business Daily noted the “pilferage of African culture over the years, through the use of intellectual property rights.”

From New York Times

Hotel representatives say the change does not directly save the companies money, even though it will cut down on pilferage, but could help attract and retain guests.

From Los Angeles Times