theave

English

Alternative forms

• thaive, thave

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English theve (“young ewe”), from Old English *þeofu, from Proto-West Germanic *þebu.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /θiːv/, /θeɪv/

Noun

theave (plural theaves)

1. (UK, dialect) A ewe lamb of a specific age; in some areas, applied to lambs in their the first or second year (before they have had lambs themselves), in others to lambs in their third year, before their second shearing.
   • 1523, Anthony Fitzherbert, Boke of Husbandry:

     The ewes by them-selfe, the share-hogges and theyues by them selfe

   • 1843 March 3, “To Be Sold by Auction, By B. Cheatle & Son”, in Leicester Journal, and Midland Counties General Advertiser, volume 92, number 4895, Leicester: James Jackson, page 2:

     Comprising eleven calved and in-calf cows and heifers, three barren cows, […] fifteen in-lamb ewes and theaves, […] yearling draught colt and filly, pony, yearling fummel, mare ass in-foal to a pony, two waggons, […]

   • 2022, PJ Harvey, Orlam, Picador, page 265:

     A dorring drush in the caddled yew. / A seance o' theaves beneath the woak.