Pilferer

Noun

Definition: Someone who steals, especially in small quantities.

Synonyms: Thief, Robber, Stealer, Purloiner

Antonyms: Donor, Philanthropist, Honest person

Examples:

The pilferer managed to swipe a few coins from the cash register without anyone noticing.
The police arrested the pilferer and recovered various stolen items from his possession.

Mnemonics:

"Pilferer" - think of it as a combination of "pile" and "firer"; imagine someone sneaking small items into a growing pile without being detected.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "pilferer" originated from the verb "pilfer," which in turn came from the Anglo-French word "pelfrer" meaning "to plunder" or "to rob."

Historical Usage:

The term "pilferer" has been in usage since the 1630s.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Catch the pilferer red-handed"

Explanation:

To apprehend someone in the act of stealing or committing a wrongdoing.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "pilferer" with "thief."

Explanation:

While a thief can also be considered a pilferer, the term "pilferer" typically refers to someone who steals in smaller quantities or less conspicuously than a traditional thief.