Meaning & Definition of word "Shoplifting"
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Shoplifting
/ˈʃɒp.lɪf.tɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. The act of stealing goods from a shop or store.
- Example: He was caught shoplifting a pair of shoes from the local department store.
- 2. An offense that involves illegally taking merchandise without paying for it.
- Example: Shoplifting can lead to serious legal consequences and a criminal record.
- 3. A crime that is often considered a form of theft.
- Example: Statistics show that shoplifting is a growing problem for many retailers.
- 4. The activity of concealing stolen items on one's person to avoid detection.
- Example: After the surge in shoplifting incidents, the store installed security cameras to deter thieves.
Etymology
From 'shop' (place of business) + 'lifting' (a euphemism for stealing).
Common Phrases and Expressions
caught red-handed:
Caught in the act of committing a crime, especially shoplifting.
boosting:
Slang term for stealing, often used in the context of shoplifting.
cleaning out a store:
To steal a significant amount of merchandise from a store.
Related Words
thief:
A person who steals.
retail:
The sale of goods to the public in relatively small quantities.
security:
Measures taken to protect a store from theft.
Slang Meanings of shoplifting
Meaning: lifting
Example Sentence: He got caught lifting a wallet from someone's bag.
Meaning: five-finger discount
Example Sentence: He joked about getting a five-finger discount from the store.