Steal

Definition

The term "steal" refers to the act of taking something without permission or legal right, typically in secret or by force.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stiːl/
• Respelling: STEEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stiːl/
• Respelling: STEEL

Etymology

The word "steal" originates from Old English "stelan," meaning "to take or seize unlawfully," from Proto-Germanic "*stelaną," related to Old High German "stelan" and Gothic "stilan." It shares roots with the Proto-Indo-European "*stel-," meaning "to place or steal."

Derivatives

• Stealing (verb/noun)
• Stolen (adjective)
• Stealth (noun)
• Stealthily (adverb)
• Stealer (noun)

Synonyms

• Rob
• Take
• Pilfer

Antonyms

• Return
• Give
• Donate

Usage

The term "steal" is used in various contexts, such as theft, sports, and expressions. For example, "He tried to steal a car" (verb) or "That deal was a steal at such a low price" (noun).

Related Terms

• Robbery: The act of taking something by force.
• Theft: The crime of stealing.
• Burgle: To enter a building and steal something.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To take something unlawfully: Refers to the act of acquiring another's property without permission.
  • Example: "The thief stole her purse from the table."
• To move or act stealthily: Refers to acting in a sneaky or secretive manner.
  • Example: "He stole into the room without making a sound."
• To gain or achieve unfairly: Refers to obtaining an advantage or item through deceit.
  • Example: "The team stole a win with their last-minute strategy."

Noun

• An advantageous deal or opportunity: Refers to acquiring something of great value for little cost.
  • Example: "The vintage car was a steal at that price."
• A move in sports: Refers to an act of taking possession or gaining an advantage, such as in baseball or basketball.
  • Example: "His quick reflexes led to a steal in the final seconds of the game."