shoplifter

noun

shop·​lift·​er ˈshäp-ˌlif-tər How to pronounce shoplifter (audio)
: one who shoplifts

Examples of shoplifter 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.
The combination of the noise and rotation process prevents a shoplifter from surreptitiously sweeping multiple items into their pocket. Roger Dooley, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025 One possibility is aggregating the amounts stolen so that a higher-level charge can be brought against a serial shoplifter, Thomas said. Shelly Bradbury, The Denver Post, 9 Feb. 2025 The head of Frontier Airlines compared anti-bag fee customers to shoplifters. Melvin Backman, Quartz, 5 Dec. 2024 Locking up store merchandise can deter shoplifters and paying customers alike, according to Walgreens. Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 15 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shoplifter

Word History

First Known Use

1680, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shoplifter was in 1680

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Cite this Entry

“Shoplifter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shoplifter. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

shoplifter

noun
shop·​lift·​er -ˌlif-tər How to pronounce shoplifter (audio)
: a person who shoplifts

Legal Definition

shoplifter

noun
shop·​lift·​er
: one who shoplifts

More from Merriam-Webster on shoplifter

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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