Shoplifting

/ˈʃɒp.lɪf.tɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The act of stealing goods from a shop or store.

He was caught shoplifting a pair of shoes from the local department store.

An offense that involves illegally taking merchandise without paying for it.

Shoplifting can lead to serious legal consequences and a criminal record.

A crime that is often considered a form of theft.

Statistics show that shoplifting is a growing problem for many retailers.

The activity of concealing stolen items on one's person to avoid detection.

After the surge in shoplifting incidents, the store installed security cameras to deter thieves.

From 'shop' (place of business) + 'lifting' (a euphemism for stealing).

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.

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.

lifting

He got caught lifting a wallet from someone's bag.

five-finger discount

He joked about getting a five-finger discount from the store.