Definition

Noun: * A thief, dishonest person, or scoundrel. This term is often used as a general term of abuse or contempt.

Usage

• This word is a borrowing from Yiddish (גנבֿ, ), which itself comes from Hebrew. It is considered informal and is often used in a humorous or mildly derogatory way.
• It functions as a noun to label a person who steals or behaves in an untrustworthy or disreputable manner.

Examples

• "Don't trust him with your wallet; he's a real ganof."
• "That ganof sold me a car that broke down the next day!"
• "The old man shouted at the kids in his yard, calling them little ganofs."

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used more broadly than just for a literal thief. It can describe anyone perceived as sneaky, underhanded, or a rascal.
  • He's a charming ganof, but you have to admire his clever schemes.

Variants and Related Words

• Ganef: An alternative spelling of the same word.
• Gonif: Another common alternative spelling.

Synonyms

• Thief
• Scoundrel
• Rascal
• Rogue
• Swindler

Idioms and Related Phrases

• (As) tricky as a ganof: Used to describe someone who is very sly or deceitful.
  • Be careful negotiating with him; he's as tricky as a ganof.

Noun

1. (Yiddish) a thief or dishonest person or scoundrel (often used as a general term of abuse)