Synonyms for

Thieves

Verb / θi:vz / Another word for thieves — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Thieves are people who steal things from others without permission.

Synonyms & similar words

hook glom stealer thief snitch cop thieve knockoff burglars robbers bandits criminals thugs crooks pickpockets swindlers pirates looters raiders shoplifters embezzlers poachers rustlers thieves-in-law scoundrels rapscallions rascals outlaws

Synonyms by register

Formal

pilferers marauders plunderers brigands

Informal

crooks swindlers shoplifters pickpockets

Literary

reivers despoilers freebooters

Antonyms

guardians protectors owners citizens law-abiders honest people

Common collocations

  • master thieves
  • petty thieves
  • art thieves
  • bank thieves
  • thieves' tools
  • thieves' market
  • thieves' honor

Word family

noun thief
verb thieve
adjective thieving

Usage note

The word 'thieves' is the plural of 'thief'. It generally refers to people who steal, often implying a degree of cunning or stealth.

Example sentences

  1. Thieves broke into the jewelry store and stole all of the diamonds.
  2. The police chased the thieves through the streets.
  3. I caught the thieves stealing candy from the store.
  4. The thieves hid the stolen money in a secret location.
  5. The thieves were caught on camera stealing from the bank.

Quotes

  • A thief believes everybody steals. - E.W. Howe
  • A thief is a thief, whether he steals a diamond or a cucumber. - Mexican Proverb
  • The thief steals from himself. The swindler swindles himself. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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