Definition

Noun: 1. The act of stealing small amounts or small articles: Pilferage refers to the action of taking things of relatively low value or quantity in a sneaky or petty manner, often over time. It typically involves theft from a workplace, store, or during shipping, where items are taken in small, incremental amounts.

Usage and Examples

• General Usage: The term is most commonly used in commercial, retail, or logistical contexts to describe losses due to petty theft.
  • The store manager was concerned about the high rate of pilferage in the stockroom.
  • Pilferage during transit can significantly increase shipping costs for the company.

Advanced Usage

• As an uncountable noun: Pilferage is typically used as an uncountable noun to describe the general concept or total amount of loss.
  • Measures were taken to reduce pilferage from the warehouse.

Variants and Related Words

• Pilfer (verb): To steal (typically things of relatively little value) in small quantities.
  • He was caught pilfering office supplies.
• Pilferer (noun): A person who pilfers; a petty thief.

Synonyms

• Petty theft: The stealing of items of low value.
• Shoplifting (specifically in a retail context): The theft of goods from a shop while pretending to be a customer.
• Filching: Informal synonym for stealing, especially something of small value.

Antonyms

• Restitution: The return of stolen goods or payment for loss.
• Honesty: The quality of being honest and truthful.

Noun

1. the act of stealing small amounts or small articles