Pilferage Meaning and Definition
Pilferage
Pronunciation
/ˈpɪlfrɪɪdʒ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of taking something, especially something valuable, without permission or payment; theft.
Examples
- The thief was caught by the police for pilferage at the store.
- The company had to deal with the pilferage of their valuable assets.
Synonyms
- Theft
- Embezzlement
Antonyms
- Honestly
- Lawfully
Etymology
The word “pilferage” comes from the Old French word “pilfer,” meaning “to steal,” and the Latin word “ferre,” meaning “to bear” or “to carry.”
Usage Notes
Pilferage is often used in formal or official contexts, such as in business or government. It is also used in more informal settings, such as in casual conversations or in literature.
Cultural References
Pilferage has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the character of Jay Gatsby is accused of pilferage.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To pilfer” means to steal or take something without permission. This phrase is often used in informal contexts, such as in conversations or in writing.
Related Words or Phrases
- Thief
- Steal
- Robbery
Collocations
- Pilferage of assets
- Pilferage of resources
Frequency of Use
Pilferage is a relatively uncommon word in everyday language, but it is used frequently in formal or official contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Pilferege
- Pilferagee