What word best describes the act of stealing in small quantities?

The word that best describes the act of stealing in small quantities is "pilfer." This term specifically refers to stealing small items or amounts, often in a sneaky or gradual manner. It conveys the idea of taking things that may not hold significant value individually but can accumulate over time through repeated acts. The use of "pilfer" suggests a certain finesse or subtlety in the act of theft, aligning perfectly with the concept of taking small quantities.

While "robbery" refers to taking property from a person or place through force or intimidation, and "filch" also denotes sneaky stealing, it is often less formal and can imply minor theft, yet "pilfer" is more widely accepted in the context of theft in small amounts. "Thieve" is a verb form that describes the act of stealing in general but does not specifically convey the nuance of small quantities. Thus, "pilfer" accurately captures the essence of stealing in small amounts.