stolen

The word “stolen” means taken from someone without permission or right. In plain terms, describes something that was taken illegally or wrongfully.

“Stolen” is pronounced STOH-ln (/ˈstoʊ.ln̩/ in IPA).

Here is “stolen” used in a sentence: “Police recovered the stolen car two days later.”

“Stolen” is an adjective.

The word “stolen” comes from Old English. The past participle of "steal," from Old English stelan.

“Stolen” is a fairly common word in modern English.

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.

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.

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.