Definition

Noun: 1. A natural tendency or inclination to steal: The quality or state of being prone to theft or dishonest appropriation of others' property. It describes a habitual disposition rather than a single act. 2. Characterized by or suggestive of stealing: Behavior or an appearance that is sly, furtive, or reminiscent of a thief.

Usage

Thievishness is a formal or literary noun used to describe a person's inherent character trait. It is often used in psychological, moral, or descriptive contexts rather than in legal accusations of a specific crime.

Examples

• The old legend spoke of a goblin whose thievishness was legendary; not a shiny object in the village was safe.
• His constant glances at her purse betrayed a thievishness that made her uncomfortable.
• The novel explores the roots of the character's thievishness, linking it to a childhood of extreme poverty.

Advanced Usage

• In a metaphorical sense: Can be used to describe something that takes away subtly or unfairly.
  • The thievishness of time stole away her youth before she knew it.

Variants and Related Words

• Thievish (adjective): Having the qualities of a thief; given to stealing.
  • He cast a thievish glance around the room.
• Thief (noun): A person who steals.
• Theft (noun): The action or crime of stealing.

Synonyms

• Larcenous tendency
• Kleptomania (specifically an irresistible impulse to steal, often without economic motive)
• Dishonesty
• Pilfering nature

Antonyms

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Probity

Idioms and Phrases

• To have sticky fingers: (Idiomatic, informal) To have a tendency to steal.
  • Be careful with your wallet around him; he's known to have sticky fingers.
  • (Note: This idiom conveys a similar meaning to thievishness but is more colloquial.)

Noun

1. having a disposition to steal