reef
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
To manipulate the lining of a person's pocket in order to steal the contents unnoticed.
Register: slang
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
This was done by "reefing." He put two fingers just inside the opening and lifted the lining a trifle. Although I watched his hands, I could feel nothing, so gently did his fingers work. Reefing a couple of times, he lifted my handkerchief, as he might have taken out anything else.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “reef” mean?
To manipulate the lining of a person's pocket in order to steal the contents unnoticed.
Is “reef” formal or informal?
reef is generally slang.