pilfer

Boys Pilfering Molasses, 1853 painting by :w:en:George Henry HallGeorge Henry Hall.

Meaning

Verb

To steal in small quantities, or articles of small value; to practise petty theft.

Origin

From Middle English pilfre ("booty"), from Old French pelfre ("plunder, booty, spoils"), of unknown origin. Compare pelf.

Modern English dictionary

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