Definition

A person who steals items from a store without paying for them.

Example

The shoplifter was caught on camera taking several expensive items.

Conversation

Did you hear about the shoplifter who got caught at the mall?

Yeah, I read about that! It's crazy how bold some people can be.

I know, right? It makes you think twice about leaving your stuff unattended.

Absolutely! It's a shame that some people resort to stealing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shoplifter → It is formed from "shop" (from Old English *sceoppa*, meaning a place where goods are sold) and "lifter" (from "lift" meaning to raise or take). The word describes someone who takes items from a shop without paying for them, effectively lifting goods from a store.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'shop' as a place where goods are sold, and 'lifter' as someone who takes or raises something. This helps you remember that a shoplifter is someone who takes items from a shop without paying.

Visually Confused Words