pilfer
UK[ˈpɪlfə]US[ˈpɪlfər]
v
To steal things of little value or in small quantities, especially in a sneaky way.
Etymology
The word 'pilfer' entered English in the late Middle English period from Anglo-Norman and Old French sources. It is related to the word 'pelf', which originally meant 'booty' or 'stolen goods', suggesting a direct semantic link to the act of theft. The verb form 'pilfer' specialized to describe a particular manner of stealing—taking items of small value in a furtive or petty manner. This evolution from a general term for plunder to a specific verb for sneaky, minor theft captures the word's enduring association with dishonesty on a small scale.
Analysis
The word is a simplex. It is a late Middle English word of Anglo-Norman and Old French origin, likely related to 'pelfre' meaning 'booty' or 'stolen goods'. Its ultimate origin is unknown but may be connected to a Germanic root.
Examples
The office manager suspected someone was beginning to pilfer supplies from the storage closet.
He was caught trying to pilfer a candy bar from the corner store.
It's not uncommon for such a large event to have a few items pilfered.