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Definition of kleptomania

kleptomania

/ˌklɛptəˈmeɪniə/
klep · to · ma · ni · a
Adjective:kleptomaniac
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kleptomania Lexical Profile

kleptomania Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A recurrent, irresistible impulse-control disorder characterized by a persistent urge to steal items that are typically of little monetary value and not needed for personal use.

Example

"The psychiatrist explained that kleptomania is an impulse-control disorder rather than a deliberate criminal enterprise."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for kleptomania

Word Nuance & Usage

In clinical psychiatry, kleptomania is distinguished from ordinary shoplifting or theft because the items taken are not needed for personal use or monetary value, and the act is driven by rising internal tension rather than greed or anger.

• Rhymes for kleptomania

• Nearby Words

kleenex
klepto
kleptocrat
kleptomania
kleptomaniac
klezmer
klick

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century from French kleptomanie, derived from Ancient Greek kleptēs ('thief', from kleptein 'to steal') and mania ('madness' or 'frenzy').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kleptomania. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 2, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kleptomania
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