Definition

The quality or condition of being inclined to steal or act like a thief.

Example

His thievishness was evident when he tried to take the neighbor's bicycle without permission.

Conversation

Did you hear about that guy who stole the bike last week?

Yeah, I can't believe someone would show such thievishness in our neighborhood.

It makes you wonder what drives people to do that.

Right? I just hope they catch him before he strikes again.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thievishness is formed from "thievish" (from Old English "þēof", meaning thief) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word describes the quality or state of being like a thief.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'thief' to remember that 'thievishness' refers to the quality of being like a thief.

Visually Confused Words