Pronunciation: [pˈɜːlɔ͡ɪnɪŋ] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "purloining" is ['pɜːlɔɪnɪŋ]. The "p" is pronounced as "puh", the "u" as "er", the "r" is rolled, the "l" is pronounced as "luh", the "o" is pronounced as "aw", the "i" as "ih", the "n" as "nuh" and the "g" as "guh". The word means stealing something, typically of little value.
Purloining, also known as theft or stealing, is an act of dishonestly taking something that does not belong to oneself, without the owner's consent. It involves the unauthorized appropriation or removal of someone else's possessions or belongings, typically for personal gain or benefit. Purloining is considered a criminal offense and is punishable by law in most societies.
The act of purloining can take various forms, such as secretly taking an item from a person's property, shoplifting goods from a store, or embezzling funds from a company. It can involve tangible objects like money, jewelry, or electronic devices, as well as intangible items such as ideas, intellectual property, or personal information.
Purloining is often driven by motives such as greed, desperation, or a lack of moral scruples. Despite its illicit nature, individuals who engage in purloining often try to remain undetected or conceal their actions to avoid legal repercussions. Many jurisdictions have established laws and legal systems to deter and punish individuals involved in purloining, aiming to protect the rights and property of individuals and organizations.
It is important to note that purloining is distinct from borrowing or taking something without permission temporarily. In purloining, there is an intentional act to permanently deprive the rightful owner of their property, and the offender has no intention of returning or compensating for the stolen goods.
The word "purloining" originates from the combination of the prefix "pur-" and the verb "loin". "Pur-" is derived from the Latin word "pro-", which means "forth" or "forward". It carries a sense of movement away from something. The verb "loin" comes from the Old English word "lānian", meaning "to lend" or "to grant the use of". Over time, "lānian" evolved into "loinen", and eventually transformed into "loin". Therefore, "purloining" essentially means to take or steal something, particularly by moving it away from its rightful owner.
