also: ひるとび
sneak thief; daytime prowler
Refers to a thief who operates during the day, often entering homes when residents are out. The term is somewhat dated and may appear in historical or crime contexts.
In the Showa era, daytime sneak thieves often targeted empty houses.
pickpocketing
Specifically refers to the act of pickpocketing, often in crowded daytime settings. This usage is less common than スリ.
I had my wallet stolen by a pickpocket in the festival crowd.
Standard kanji spelling; the reading ひるとんび is the most common.
Less common reading; ひるとんび is preferred.
Compound of 昼 (daytime) and 鳶 (kite, a bird of prey), likening a daytime thief to a kite swooping down. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.