Pilfered (verb, past tense of pilfer) means to steal things of little value; to steal small amounts repeatedly, often without the intention of permanently depriving the owner. It implies a casual or petty theft, frequently involving personal belongings or small sums of money. It is different from the words 'robbed' or 'burgled' as it infers lesser amounts being taken. The action is often secretive, though not necessarily violent or involve forced entry. The motivation may be related to perceived entitlement, convenience, or a lack of regard for the property of others. It is often associated with repeated, small-scale theft that adds up over time. It has connotations of stealth, deception, and the potential for moral deficiency, especially in the context of the act’s lack of respect.
Pilfered meaning with examples
- The children, left unsupervised during the carnival, pilfered candies and small toys from various stalls, their youthful exuberance masking their actions. They seemed unaware of the moral implications of pilfering. Despite the small value of each item taken, their collective pilfered goods raised concern from the shop owners and the adults looking after them as their pilfered candy bags quickly became full.
- During the chaotic evacuation of the flooded city, opportunistic individuals pilfered essential supplies from abandoned shops and homes. The pilfered items included bottled water, canned goods, and even flashlights, all of which were of short value, yet essential. While the need was great, their pilfered goods were still viewed as theft by those in authority, and could have had criminal consequences.
- After the bank heist, the getaway driver, desperate for money, pilfered some of the loot from the other gang members. He wasn't part of the original plan, but felt entitled. He was eventually caught and faced legal consequences for his crime. Even a seemingly insignificant amount of pilfered money could still result in a lengthy jail sentence, or extensive community service, depending on what was taken and who was effected.
- The office worker, despite his otherwise unblemished record, was discovered to have repeatedly pilfered pens, sticky notes, and other office supplies, creating a secretive hoard at his desk. The pilfered items were of little individual value, yet his behavior violated company policies and was, at best, very unprofessional. He was fired when the extent of his actions, and lack of acknowledgement, was revealed.
Pilfered Crossword Answers
5 Letters
STOLE
6 Letters
STOLEN
7 Letters
FILCHED