thieving

word · lemma: thieve

Definition

Related to stealing or someone who steals; often used to describe behavior or actions connected to theft.

Usage & Nuances

Usually informal and somewhat negative. Commonly used as an adjective before nouns, like 'thieving hands' or 'thieving rats.' Implies dishonest, sneaky, or illegal activity. Rarely used to directly call a person 'thieving' without a noun.

Example Sentences

The thieving boy was caught by the police.

basic

She doesn't trust his thieving friends.

basic

The farmer set traps for the thieving animals.

basic

Our lunch kept disappearing—must be some thieving raccoon in the area.

natural

He's always coming up with some thieving scheme to get rich quick.

natural

Watch your bag; there's been a lot of thieving going on lately.

natural