sneak thief

noun

1. a burglar who sneaks into houses through open doors, windows, etc.

sneak thief

noun

1. a person who steals paltry articles from premises, which he enters through open doors, windows, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of sneak thief¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example Sentences

"Out with you, you sneak-thief; I am not afraid of you," Karl cried again.

From Project Gutenberg

More than that, he has the sly and stealthy manners of the sneak-thief and the brigand.

From Project Gutenberg

I was foolish not to complain to the management at once, for I might have been robbed by some sneak-thief.

From Project Gutenberg

He had the chance, and being a sneak thief by nature he took it.

From Project Gutenberg

Bluff demanded first of all, his suspicions running in the direction of a sneak thief.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• thief