pickpocket

[pik-pok-it]

noun

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

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

/ ˈpɪkˌpɒkɪt /

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickpocket¹

First recorded in 1585–95; pick ¹ + pocket

Example Sentences

“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.”

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

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And so, I always equate it to a pickpocket.

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Her street cred appears high as she distracts someone in the prison yard with a kiss—just long enough to pickpocket their phone.

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He has some wild ideas, including getting pickpockets to steal valuables from his players, external during a squad meal at the start of the season.

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Related Words

• thief