Pickpockets

/ˈpɪk.pɑk.ɪts/ noun

Definition

Thieves who steal items from people's pockets or bags without being noticed, using sleight of hand.

Etymology

Compound word from 'pick' meaning 'to steal' combined with 'pocket.' The term emerged in the 1600s as pockets became common in clothing.

Kelly Says

Pickpockets were so famous in history that Shakespeare wrote about them, and in London there was actually a 'Pickpocket's School' where young thieves learned their trade!

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