1. (American) To steal. Originally from black slang, perhaps influenced by lift, hoist and heist, the term is now in general use among young people. It usually refers to petty theft, often shoplifting.

'Some gals go in for boosting, or paper- pushing or lifting leathers. Others work the chloral hydrate.' (Wild Town, Jim Thompson, 1957)

2. (South African) To assist or help. Recorded as an item of Sowetan slang in the Cape Sunday Times, 29 January 1995.