Definition

Noun: A person who steals money, wallets, or other valuables directly from the pockets, bags, or purses of people in crowded public places, typically without the victim's immediate notice.

Usage

The word "pickpocket" is used to identify a specific type of thief. It functions as a countable noun. It is often used in news reports, crime warnings, and general descriptions of urban crime. - Example: "The tourist was a victim of a pickpocket on the busy subway." - Example: "Police arrested three suspected pickpockets at the market."

Advanced Usage

• To work as a pickpocket: This phrase describes the criminal activity.
  • Example: "He was known to work as a pickpocket in the city center."
• Pickpocket-proof: Used as an adjective to describe items designed to prevent such theft.
  • Example: "She bought a pickpocket-proof backpack for her travels."

Variants and Related Words

• Pickpocketing (n): The act or crime of stealing from someone's pocket or bag.
  • Example: "Pickpocketing is a common problem in tourist areas."
• Dip (n, slang): A slang synonym for a pickpocket.

Synonyms

• Thief: A general term for someone who steals.
• Cutter (historical/slang): An archaic term for a pickpocket who cut purses.
• Purse-snatcher: A thief who grabs and runs with a bag; this involves more force and is less stealthy than pickpocketing.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To have light fingers: An idiom meaning to be prone to stealing, especially in a sneaky way like a pickpocket.
  • Example: "Be careful with your wallet around him; he's known to have light fingers."

Noun

1. a thief who steals from the pockets or purses of others in public places