[f. as prec. + -ING2.] That filches; pilfering.
1570. B. Googe, Pop. Kingd., IV. 53.
| A number great of armed men here all this while doe flande, | |
| To looke that no disorder be, nor any filching hande. |
1592. Wyrley, Armorie, 151.
| Ah filching death thou felonous bloodie thiefe, | |
| Bereauer of my sole deliueraunce, | |
| Dispoiler of my worldly pleasaunce. |
1659. Gentl. Calling (1660), 110. This filtching Devil, that thus steals from men their precious hours.
a. 1700. B. E., Dict. Cant. Crew, Filching-cove, a Man-thief.
