thief

Definition

One who carries out a theft.

Etymology

From Middle English thef, theef, þef, from Old English þēof, from Proto-West Germanic *þeub, from Proto-Germanic *þeubaz.

Example Sentences

• "water-thieves and land-thieves"
• "Take heed to false harlots, and more, ye wot what. / If noise ye heare, / Looke all be cleare: / Least drabs doe noie thee, / And theeues destroie thee."
• "But hear you, my Worthy Brethren: do not you, where you see a thief in the candle, call presently for an extinguisher[…]"

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