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The Collaborative International Dictionary
Knave child

Knave \Knave\ (n[=a]v), n. [OE., boy, servant, knave, AS. cnafa boy, youth; cf. AS. cnapa boy, youth, D. knaap, G. knabe boy, knappe esquire, Icel. knapi, Sw. knape esquire, kn["a]fvel knave.]

  1. A boy; especially, a boy servant. [Obs.]
    --Wyclif. Chaucer.

    O murderous slumber, Lay'st thou thy leaden mace upon my boy That plays thee music ? Gentle knave, good night.
    --Shak.

  2. Any male servant; a menial. [Obs.]
    --Chaucer.

    He's but Fortune's knave, A minister of her will.
    --Shak.

  3. A tricky, deceitful fellow; a dishonest person; a rogue; a villain. ``A pair of crafty knaves.''
    --Shak.

    In defiance of demonstration, knaves will continue to proselyte fools.
    --Ames.

    Note: ``How many serving lads must have been unfaithful and dishonest before knave -- which meant at first no more than boy -- acquired the meaning which it has now !''
    --Trench.

  4. A playing card marked with the figure of a servant or soldier; a jack; as, the knave of hearts.

    Knave child, a male child. [Obs.]
    --Chaucer.

    Syn: Villain; cheat; rascal; rogue; scoundrel; miscreant.