pilfer Definition
to steal things of small value, especially from the place where you work.
Using pilfer: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pilfer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was caught pilfering stationery from the office.
Example
The cashier was fired for pilfering money from the cash register.
Example
The company lost thousands of dollars due to employee pilferage.
Example
She was accused of pilfering food from the kitchen.
pilfer Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with pilfer
Example
The store owner was frustrated with the petty pilfering that occurred on a daily basis.
pilfer-proof
designed or constructed in a way that makes it difficult to steal from
Example
The new security system made the store almost pilfer-proof.
a person who steals things of small value
Example
The pilferer was caught on camera and arrested by the police.
Origins of pilfer
from Old French 'pelfrer', meaning 'to plunder'
Summary: pilfer in Brief
'Pilfer' [ˈpɪlfər] means to steal small items, especially from one's workplace. It is often used to describe petty thefts, such as stationery or food. The term can also be used in phrases like 'petty pilfering' and 'pilfer-proof.'
