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.
This quiet, unobtrusive process pays deterrence dividends far beyond the individual case, as would-be felony shoplifters come to learn that the store deploys this technology and then decide against taking the risk in the first place. Freddy Kuo, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 The victim chased the shoplifter into the parking lot and the two started fighting, authorities said. Emily Shapiro, ABC News, 10 Apr. 2025 Robbins, a known shoplifter, was linked to nine incidents of petty larceny, grand larceny and a shoplifting pattern in Midtown at department stores since the start of this year. Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 6 Apr. 2025 Clothier said 20 to 30 judges across the state who heard about the car wash planned to join him and the shoplifters. Landon Mion, Fox News, 16 Mar. 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 25 Apr. 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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