steal 1 of 2

Definition of stealnext

steal

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb steal differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of steal are filch, pilfer, and purloin. While all these words mean "to take from another without right or without detection," steal may apply to any surreptitious taking of something and differs from the other terms by commonly applying to intangibles as well as material things.

steal jewels
stole a look at the gifts

In what contexts can filch take the place of steal?

The meanings of filch and steal largely overlap; however, filch adds a suggestion of snatching quickly and surreptitiously.

filched an apple from the tray

When might pilfer be a better fit than steal?

While the synonyms pilfer and steal are close in meaning, pilfer implies stealing repeatedly in small amounts.

pilfered from his employer

When could purloin be used to replace steal?

The synonyms purloin and steal are sometimes interchangeable, but purloin stresses removing or carrying off for one's own use or purposes.

printed a purloined document

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of steal
Verb
The brothers were in the country illegally during the multi-state scheme that stole at least $760,000 from the federal SNAP program, prosecutors said. Joe Marusak july 2, Charlotte Observer, 2 July 2026 Depredation occurs when a shark steals an angler’s catch off their line, and Florida’s fishers are tired of it. Kairi Lowery, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
Noun
Among players around the NBA who appeared in at least 50 games last regular season, Smith led the league in steals per 36 minutes. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 29 June 2026 A’ja Wilson had 30 points, 15 rebounds, four steals and three blocks to become the first player in WNBA history to reach those marks in a game as the Las Vegas Aces beat the Chicago Sky 107-99 at the United Center yesterday. Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for steal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steal
Verb
  • His failure to step up in the pocket and inconsistency in feeling pressure points allow edge rushers to swipe the ball out of his hands way too easily.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 3 July 2026
  • Two weeks before Maria hit, Hurricane Irma swiped past the island’s northeast corner as a Category 5 storm, also knocking out power.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • Koorimannil managed to sneak out a screenshot from his computer that AP and security nonprofit C4ADS used to identify the key to his productivity — a software platform called Kongtian Intelligent Customer Acquisition, or KT for short.
    ABC News, ABC News, 30 June 2026
  • In just its fourth World Cup appearance, Norway has the chance to sneak into the Round of 16 for the third time.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Home prices in the nation are falling, making way for potential bargains—but only the wealthiest foreigners can afford to move there.
    Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 2 July 2026
  • Some of that advantage comes from a bargain few would defend out loud.
    Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • According to prosecutors, Pooh Shiesty robbed the record label owner of about $450,000 worth of items including his wedding band, a watch, a pair of earrings and cash.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
  • Florida state prosecutors allege that in February 2026, Arnold coordinated and directed his codefendants to lure three men to an apartment where the men were robbed, beaten and held at gunpoint.
    DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • But the challenge has remained over the decades for popes that the threat of schism, or a rupture within the church, might lurk behind a preference for a more solemn liturgy.
    ABC News, ABC News, 3 July 2026
  • Mow regularly and trim your edges, since ticks lurk in tall grass and brush.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • The NBCUniversal spin-off is envisioned as a tax-free transaction for shareholders, providing a short-term buffer from deal-making to preserve that structure.
    Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • Now, the 76ers have some hope, as the franchise on Wednesday agreed to a deal for Boston Celtics star forward Jaylen Brown, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania and other news reports.
    Tim Casey, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Schieffelin, who played football last season because had used up his basketball eligibility, used his bulky frame to grab eight rebounds on an 11-point night.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 7 July 2026
  • Once the excitement had died down, the team gathered in a circle and a player went up to Haaland, grabbed the back of his neck and kissed his cheek.
    Tim Rohan, NBC news, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • The styles incorporate features typically found in work shoes, including nano toe, steel toe, waterproof, electrical hazard protection, slip resistant outsoles and quick draw laces.
    Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 30 June 2026
  • Circle’s stock slipped 13% after the announcement and now trades at $66 per share.
    Camila Grigera Naón, Fortune, 30 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steal. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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