Emily Dickinson Lexicon

FILCH, v.t. [This word, like Pilfer, is probably from the root of file or peel, to strip or rub off. But I know not from what source we have received it. In Sp. pellizcar is to pilfer, as filouter, in French, is to pick the pocket.]

To steal something of little value; to pilfer; to steal; to pillage; to take wrongfully from another. Fain would they filch that little food away. Dryden. But he that filches from me my good name, / Robs me of that which not enriches him, / And makes me poor indeed. Shak.