Synonyms for

Steal

Verb / sti:l / Another word for steal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to take something without permission or without paying for it

Synonyms & similar words

bargain buy slip rob thieve plunder pilfer snatch swipe embezzle filch pinch lift purloin snitch misappropriate appropriate borrow nip hook nobble

Synonyms by register

Formal

pilfer embezzle defraud appropriate

Informal

swipe nab pinch lift nick

Literary

purloin filch thieve

Antonyms

give return donate offer lend restore replenish

Common collocations

  • steal a march
  • steal the show
  • steal a glance
  • steal a moment
  • steal away
  • steal from
  • steal something

Word family

noun theft
verb steal
adjective stolen

Usage note

While 'steal' can refer to taking anything without permission, 'pilfer' often implies taking small items, and 'embezzle' specifically refers to misappropriating funds entrusted to one's care.

Example sentences

  1. I caught my brother trying to steal my toy.
  2. The burglar stole money from the bank.
  3. She was accused of stealing her friend's necklace.
  4. He stole a kiss from his girlfriend.
  5. The thief stole a car from the parking lot.

Quotes

  • “Stealing, of course, is a crime, and a very impolite thing to do. But like most impolite things, it is excusable under certain circumstances.” - Lemony Snicket
  • “He who steals a little steals with the same wish as he who steals much, but with less power.” - Plato
  • “When you steal from the library, you're stealing from yourself.” - Peter Golkin

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