A boy; especially, a boy servant. [Obs.] Wyclif. Chaucer. O murderous slumber, Lay'st thou thy leaden mace upon my boy That plays thee music Gentle knave, good night. Shak.
Any male servant; a menial. [Obs.] Chaucer. He's but Fortune's knave, A minister of her will. Shak.
A tricky, deceitful fellow; a dishonest person; a rogue; a villain. "A pair of crafty knaves." Shak. In defiance of demonstration, knaves will continue to proselyte fools. Ames.
A playing card marked with the figure of a servant or soldier; a jack. Knave child, a male child. [Obs.] Chaucer.
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