Synonyms of thief

thief

noun

ˈthēf 

as in robber

one who steals

a thief has been stealing wallets and valuables from the lockers at the gym

Synonyms & Similar Words

• robber
• burglar
• kidnapper
• stealer
• pirate
• smuggler
• pincher
• bandit
• hijacker
• housebreaker
• embezzler
• pickpocket
• pilferer
• kleptomaniac
• larcenist
• safecracker
• purloiner
• shoplifter
• grafter
• picklock
• cat burglar
• plunderer
• looter
• cracksman
• highwayman
• cutpurse
• klepto
• abductor
• sneak thief
• carjacker
• ravisher
• pillager
• rustler
• footpad
• skyjacker
• poacher
• mugger
• despoiler
• dip
• ransacker

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of thief

Late-night headlights, unusual vehicle track marks or missing trees could be signs a timber thief is afoot. — Chloe Bennett-Steele, StateImpact, 20 July 2026

Most famously, in 1966 the trophy was found underneath a hedge by a dog called Pickles a week after thieves had taken it from Westminster Central Hall, London, following England’s victory. — Eduardo Tansley, New York Times, 19 July 2026

In the neo-noir crime thriller, Cole (Dane DeHaan) is a thief who makes a living hacking people's bank accounts from his car. — Brian Truitt, USA Today, 17 July 2026

More than six weeks after copper thieves stole its air-conditioning units, the Centre Branch Post Office in Arden Arcade’s Country Club neighborhood remains without central air conditioning, leaving employees and customers to endure the summer heat. — Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 17 July 2026