filch
UK: fɪltʃ | US: fɪltʃ
vt. to steal something (typically of small value) in a sneaky or casual manner
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The word "filch" originated in Middle English (circa 14th century), likely derived from an unrecorded Old English term. Its exact roots are obscure, but it may be linked to Germanic or Old Norse influences, reflecting a colloquial term for petty theft. Unlike compound words, "filch" evolved as a compact verb with a vivid, onomatopoeic quality—its sharp, clipped sound mirrors the quick, furtive action it describes. Over time, it retained its narrow semantic focus on stealthy theft, often with a connotation of triviality or mischief.
The mischievous boy tried to filch a candy bar from the store.
She caught her coworker attempting to filch office supplies.
Pirates would often filch small treasures from merchant ships.
The squirrel filched nuts from the bird feeder.
He was known to filch pens from the conference room.