Knave n.
 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.
 2. Any male servant; a menial. [Obs.]
 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.”
    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 !”
 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.]
 Syn: -- Villain; cheat; rascal; rogue; scoundrel; miscreant.

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