kleptomania

What is another word for kleptomania? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A psychological disorder that causes a repeated, uncontrollable urge to steal, without any real financial or material need.

We haven't recorded synonyms for kleptomania yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use kleptomania

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

diagnosed with kleptomania suffer from kleptomania a form of kleptomania

Kleptomania is a clinical term also used in everyday descriptions of compulsive stealing.

Etymology

Kleptomania combines the Ancient Greek verb for stealing with the suffix -mania, which denotes an obsessive urge. Together the parts describe an uncontrollable compulsion to steal.

Full origin of kleptomania →

Frequently asked questions

What is kleptomania?

Kleptomania is a psychological disorder in which someone feels a repeated, uncontrollable urge to steal, even when they don't need or want the items taken.

Is kleptomania the same as being a thief?

No, kleptomania is a recognised disorder rather than theft carried out for gain; the stealing is driven by an irresistible impulse rather than need.

Where does the word kleptomania come from?

It combines an Ancient Greek word meaning to steal with the suffix -mania, which points to an obsessive urge.

Nearby words

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