theave

• thaive, thave

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

• IPA^(key): /θiːv/, /θeɪv/

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

   • 2022, PJ Harvey, Orlam, Picador, p. 265:

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