stolen
6 synonyms for stolen, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Taken from someone without permission or right.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
pilfered
swiped
misappropriated
purloined
How to use stolen
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
stolen goods
stolen property
stolen identity
Etymology
The past participle of "steal," from Old English stelan.
Full origin of stolen →Frequently asked questions
What does “stolen” mean?
The word “stolen” means taken from someone without permission or right. In plain terms, describes something that was taken illegally or wrongfully.
How do you pronounce “stolen”?
“Stolen” is pronounced STOH-ln (/ˈstoʊ.ln̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “stolen” in a sentence?
Here is “stolen” used in a sentence: “Police recovered the stolen car two days later.”
What part of speech is “stolen”?
“Stolen” is an adjective.
Where does the word “stolen” come from?
The word “stolen” comes from Old English. The past participle of "steal," from Old English stelan.
Is “stolen” a common word?
“Stolen” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between stolen and stole?
Both come from the verb steal, but they play different roles. Stole is the simple past tense: 'he stole the car yesterday.' Stolen is the past participle, used with have or be: 'the car has been stolen' or 'a stolen car.' As an adjective, stolen describes something that was taken without permission.
What is an example of stolen used as an adjective?
As an adjective, stolen describes property taken unlawfully, as in stolen goods, a stolen car, or a stolen phone. It can also be figurative, as in 'a stolen kiss' or 'stolen moments together,' meaning something snatched quietly or without permission. In every case it points to something obtained without right or consent.
What is the opposite of stolen?
Depending on context, the opposite of stolen could be returned, recovered, or restored when speaking of goods that come back to their owner. In terms of how something was obtained, the opposite is honestly acquired, bought, earned, or rightfully owned, meaning it was gained with permission and by legitimate means rather than taken.
