Autolycus

English

Etymology

Borrowed from Ancient Greek Αὐτόλυκος (Autólukos).

Proper noun

Autolycus

1. (Greek mythology) In Ancient Greek mythology, a son of Hermes and Chione. A successful robber, he was capable of changing his own form and that of the goods he stole.

Noun

Autolycus (plural Autolycuses or Autolyci)

1. (poetic) A thief or plagiarist.
   • 1875, Arthur Crump, The Theory of Stock Exchange Speculation, page 28:

     Each new era of prosperity requires and generally witnesses a new set of ingenious devices to throw dust in the eyes of investors, while the new race of Autolycuses are going through all the old tricks.

   • 1886, Macmillan's Magazine, volume 53, page 284:

     However virtuous, however single- minded their intentions, it is but a cruel thing these Autolyci do, these snappers up of unconsidered trifles.