Thief

/θiːf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who steals, especially secretly or unlawfully.

The thief escaped with a bag full of money.

A person who takes something that belongs to someone else without their permission.

They caught the thief trying to break into the car.

Someone who steals from another person or place, typically by stealth.

The thief was arrested after being spotted by a security camera.

A person who has been convicted of theft.

He spent years in prison because he was a repeated thief.

From Old English 'þēof', related to the verb 'thēofan', meaning to steal.

caught red-handed

To be caught in the act of doing something wrong, especially stealing.

thief of hearts

A person who breaks the hearts of others, often used in romantic contexts.

art thief

A person who steals art or valuable collectibles.

larceny

Theft of personal property.

embezzlement

The act of withholding assets for one's own use in violation of a trust.

robbery

Taking property unlawfully from a person or place by force or threat.

Sticky fingers

That kid has sticky fingers; he's always taking things that aren't his.

Cat burglar

The cat burglar was known for his ability to break in without making a sound.