stealing I. noun (-s) Etymology: Middle English steling, from gerund of stelen to steal : the act of one who steals < accused of stealing > < led the league in stealing > II. adjective Etymology: from present participle of steal (II) 1.archaic: moving stealthily, softly, or imperceptibly 2.: thieving < helpful in the case of a stealing boy or girl — G.E.Gardner > • steal·ing·lyadverb