01 n. A boy; especially, a boy servant.
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1.
A boy; especially, a boy servant.[Obs.]“O murderous slumber, Lay'st thou thy leaden mace upon my boy That plays thee music ? Gentle knave, good night.” — Shak.
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2.
Any male servant; a menial.[Obs.]“He's but Fortune's knave, A minister of her will.” — Shak.
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3.
A tricky, deceitful fellow; a dishonest person; a rogue; a villain.“In defiance of demonstration, knaves will continue to proselyte fools.” — Ames.
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4.
A playing card marked with the figure of a servant or soldier; a jack; as, the knave of hearts.
Phrases & compounds
Knave child —
a male child.