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gonof: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Very low (obsolete/archaic spelling variant)
UK/ˈɡɒnəf/US/ˈɡɑːnəf/

Informal, dated, chiefly found in older texts or humorous/affected use.

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Quick answer

What does “gonof” mean?

A thief or dishonest person.

Audio

Pronunciation

Definition

Meaning and Definition

A thief or dishonest person; a variant spelling of 'ganef' from Yiddish.

Used to describe a cunning or untrustworthy individual, often with a connotation of petty crime or sharp dealing. In some contexts, used more humorously or affectionately.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

No significant difference in meaning. The variant 'gonof' was more common in 19th-century British publications (e.g., Dickens). American usage historically favored 'ganef'.

Connotations

In both varieties, it is strongly marked as a borrowing and often used for colourful characterisation.

Frequency

Extremely rare in contemporary usage in either variety. 'Ganef' is the more recognized modern form.

Grammar

How to Use “gonof” in a Sentence

[Determiner] + gonofVerb + [as/for] a gonof

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong
little gonofcheeky gonofold gonof
medium
a proper gonofthieving gonof
weak
street gonofcunning gonof

Examples

Examples of “gonof” in a Sentence

adjective

British English

  • He had a gonof look about him.

Usage

Meaning in Context

Business

Not used.

Academic

Only in historical or linguistic studies.

Everyday

Virtually never used in modern everyday conversation.

Technical

Not used.

Vocabulary

Synonyms of “gonof”

Neutral

thiefrogue

Vocabulary

Antonyms of “gonof”

honest personupright citizen

Watch out

Common Mistakes When Using “gonof”

  • Misspelling as 'gonnof' or 'gonoff'.
  • Using in formal contexts.
  • Pronouncing the 'g' as soft /dʒ/ (it is /ɡ/).

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is extremely rare and considered an obsolete or archaic spelling variant of 'ganef'.

It originates from Yiddish 'ganef', meaning 'thief', which itself comes from Hebrew 'gannav'.

No, it is informal, dated, and highly marked. Use only in historical contexts or stylized dialogue.

It carries specific cultural connotations (Yiddish/Ashkenazi) and is often used for character colour, implying a certain kind of roguishness.

A thief or dishonest person.

Gonof: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɒnəf/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɑːnəf/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.

Phrases

Idioms & Phrases

  • “as clever as a gonof”
  • “have the nerve of a gonof”

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

GONe Off with my stuff → GONOF.

Conceptual Metaphor

DISHONESTY IS A TRADE (e.g., 'plying his trade as a gonof').

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap
In the old tale, the was always outwitting the constable.
Multiple Choice

'Gonof' is best described as:

gonof: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples | Lingvocore