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Definitions

steal

[steel] / stil /
VERB
take something without permission
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abduct divert embezzle keep kidnap loot pilfer plunder ransack remove strip swipe take
STRONG
appropriate blackmail burglarize cheat cozen defraud despoil heist housebreak lift misappropriate peculate pillage pinch pirate plagiarize poach purloin rifle sack shoplift snitch swindle thieve withdraw
WEAK
carry off hold for ransom hold up make off with rip off run off with spirit away stick up take possession of walk off with
Antonyms
STRONGEST
give give up let go maintain receive release stay
STRONG
protect
VERB
sneak around
Synonyms
STRONG
creep flit glide insinuate lurk skulk slide slink slip snake tiptoe
WEAK
go stealthily pass quietly
Antonyms
WEAK
give receive

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Swindlers have stepped up their game with artificial intelligence and deepfakes to steal older Americans’ money and personal information.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

Could the Lakers actually steal this first round?

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

While this is a story of small retailers being targeted by thieves willing to smash up their shops in order to steal their cards, it is also one of community.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

Russia's tone, and the attempt to steal the initiative, will make Ukrainians bristle.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

“Well, no. I was so sure you’d be sleeping that I came to your room to quietly steal a box of cookies for my breakfast. But I’m here now.”

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

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