pickpocket

American  

[pik-pok-it] / ˈpɪkˌpɒk ɪt /

noun

1. a person who steals money, wallets, etc., from the pockets of people, as in crowded public places.

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verb (used with object)

1. to steal (a wallet, money, etc.) in the manner of a pickpocket.

2. to steal from (a person) in the manner of a pickpocket.

pickpocket British  

/ ˈpɪkˌpɒkɪt /

noun

1. a person who steals from the pockets or handbags of others in public places

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Etymology

Origin of pickpocket

First recorded in 1585–95; pick ¹ + pocket

Example Sentences

So I quickly retrieved my bag and looked over to see what was happening to the pickpocket.

From Literature

The area has been targeted by pickpockets, and Rome officials have debated different ways of regulating access for years.

From Barron's

The area has been targeted by pickpockets and Rome officials have debated different ways of regulating access for years.

From Barron's

“I ought not to make too much of it, for pickpockets and rogues are a commonplace in London. We must stay on our toes, that is all.”

From Literature

A delivery driver by day, he started filming pickpocket moments after saying he witnessed them almost daily, before posting them online.

From BBC

Related Words

• thief