pickpocket

noun

pick·​pock·​et ˈpik-ˌpä-kət How to pronounce pickpocket (audio)
Synonyms of pickpocketnext
: a thief who picks pockets

Examples of pickpocket in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
In China, pickpockets use chopsticks, and bystanders tend not to interfere. — Michael Schulman, New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2026 In a rare lead role, one that gives him a frankly magnificent coat, Turturro adds to his late-career renaissance as an old-school pickpocket who runs afoul of a Gen-Z mobster. — Nate Jones, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026 Meanwhile, out on the streets, young con artist Thomas Shepherd (Ruaridh Mollica) and pickpocket Lisa Molinari (Lauren Morais) are running petty scams. — Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026 Many frequent fliers swear by functional, secure styles that hold all their essentials and protect against pickpockets. — Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pickpocket

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pickpocket was in 1591

Rhymes for pickpocket

See All Rhymes for pickpocket

Browse Nearby Words

pick over
pickpocket
pickpole
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pickpocket.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pickpocket. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pickpocket

noun
pick·​pock·​et ˈpik-ˌpäk-ət How to pronounce pickpocket (audio)
: a thief who steals from pockets and purses

Legal Definition

pickpocket

noun
pick·​pock·​et
: a thief who surreptitiously steals money or valuables from the pockets or person of an individual

More from Merriam-Webster on pickpocket

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