larceny

Etymology

Coined in Middle English (as larceni) between 1425 and 1475 from Anglo-Norman larcin (“theft”), from Latin latrocinium (“robbery”), from latro (“robber, mercenary”), from Ancient Greek λάτρον (látron, “pay, hire”).

noun

1. (law, uncountable) The unlawful taking of personal property as an attempt to deprive the legal owner of it permanently.
   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.
   That young man already has four assaults, a DUI, and a larceny on his record.