Search Dictionary
Definition of klepto

klepto

/ˈklɛp.toʊ/
klep · to
Plural:kleptos
•
Adjective:kleptomaniac
JUMP TO:

klepto Lexical Profile

klepto Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who has a recurrent, compulsive urge to steal items that are typically not needed for personal use or monetary value; a kleptomaniac (informal).

Example

"Everyone at the office hid their favorite pens whenever the resident klepto walked by their desks."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for klepto

• Nearby Words

klaralven
klaxon
kleenex
klepto
kleptocrat
kleptomania
kleptomaniac

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century as an informal clipping of "kleptomaniac," which ultimately derives from the Ancient Greek verb "kleptein" (to steal) and "mania" (madness).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Klepto. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 2, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/klepto
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.