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The word evokes a sense of containment and concealment. It suggests a private space where items are kept safe, hidden, or readily accessible. There is a strong association with personal belongings and the physical boundary between the public world and one's private possessions. In a financial or legal context, the word takes on a more cynical tone. It shifts from a neutral description of clothing to a symbol of greed or corruption, where the act of pocketing something implies a theft of resources or a lack of transparency.
Countable when referring to the physical pouches on a piece of clothing. Uncountable when referring to the general concept of financial capacity or the act of pocketing funds.
Meanings
A small pouch sewn into clothing or a bag for carrying small items.
"He kept his keys in his jacket pocket."
To put something into a pocket, often secretly or dishonestly.
"The official pocketed the bribe without a word."
To take money for oneself, typically in a way that is unfair or illegal.
"The company pocketed the profits while the workers got nothing."