thievery

[thee-vuh-ree]

noun

plural

thieveries 

1. the act or practice of thieving; theft.

2. something taken by theft.

Word History and Origins

Origin of thievery¹

First recorded in 1560–70; thieve + -ery

Example Sentences

SAG-AFTRA has already warned that AI models are built on the backs of countless human performances, without consent or compensation — which of course is not true innovation but a kind of creative thievery.

From Los Angeles Times

In response, Sheinbaum defended the admiral and said he helped denounce the thievery.

From Los Angeles Times

Speaking exclusively to Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, he said if ministers go ahead with plans to allow AI firms to use artists' content without paying, they would be "committing theft, thievery on a high scale".

From BBC

While malfeasance in politics happens in all parts of Southern California, the level of skulduggery, and sometimes outright thievery, by council members in southeast L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Fictionally speaking, of all criminal pursuits, thievery is the most romantic because it requires a significant degree of cleverness, of subtlety and skill and, by practical necessity, isn’t violent.

From Los Angeles Times

When To Use

What does thievery mean?

Thievery is the practice of thieving—stealing. Thieves lead a life of thievery.The words thief and theft are often used in situations in which a person steals in secret and without using force or violence. However, the word thievery is used in the context of all kinds of thefts, even violent ones. Thieve and thievery often imply that such activity is habitual or part of a criminal lifestyle.Example: He is a pirate, a rogue—he knows nothing but lies and thievery.