Definition of "larceny"

larceny

/ˈlɑː.sən.i/

noun
countable and uncountable, plural larcenies
1. (law, uncountable) The unlawful taking of personal property as an attempt to deprive the legal owner of it permanently.
  Quotations
  “Why are you walking around,” inquired Oedipa, “with your eyes closed, Metzger?” “Larceny,” Metzger said, “maybe they'll need a lawyer.”
  1966, Thomas Pynchon, chapter 3, in The Crying of Lot 49, New York: Bantam Books, published 1976, page 37
  He was prudent enough not to admit he was earning money, which went down well with you, for you knew already he was working “black,” as the Germans call it — meaning illegally, and at night. Shrewd chap, you thought; resourceful; not above a bit of larceny.
  1986, John le Carré, A Perfect Spy
2. (law, countable) A larcenous act attributable to an individual.