Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

goniff

noun

/ˈɡɒnɪf/

Definition

A thief or a dishonest person.

Examples

Despite his charming demeanor, everyone knew he was a goniff at heart.
They caught the goniff trying to lift wallets from the crowd.
Don’t trust him; he’s a known goniff who has swindled many people.

Meaning

Goniff is a Yiddish term that refers to someone who steals or engages in dishonest activities. The word has become part of English vernacular, especially in regions with significant Jewish communities. It often carries a connotation of being a petty thief rather than a serious criminal.