thief

thief

noun \ˈthēf\

plural thieves\ˈthēvz\

Definition of THIEF

: one that steals especially stealthily or secretly; also : one who commits theft or larceny

Examples of THIEF

1. A thief took my purse.
2. <a thief has been stealing wallets and valuables from the lockers at the gym>

Origin of THIEF

Middle English theef, from Old English thēof; akin to Old High German diob thief

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to THIEF

Synonyms: larcenist, pincher, purloiner, robber, stealer

Related Words: burglar, cat burglar, cracksman, housebreaker, picklock, safecracker; embezzler, grafter; klepto, kleptomaniac; sneak thief; cutpurse, dip [slang], pickpocket, pilferer, shoplifter; abductor, carjacker, hijacker, kidnapper (also kidnaper), skyjacker; despoiler, looter, pillager, plunderer, ransacker, ravisher; poacher, rustler, smuggler; bandit, footpad, highwayman, pirate; mugger

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Other Legal Terms

actionable, alienable, carceral, chattel, complicity, decedent, larceny, malfeasance, modus operandi

Rhymes with THIEF

beef, brief, chief, fief, grief, kef, leaf, lief, reef, sheaf