STOUTHRIEFF

1 definition found

From Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856) [bouvier]:

  STOUTHRIEFF, Scotch law. Formerly this word included in its signification 
  every species of theft, accompanied with violence to the person; but of late 
  years it has become the vox signata for forcible and masterful depredation 
  within or near the dwelling house; while robbery has been more particularly 
  applied to violent depredation on the highway, or accompanied by house-
  breaking. Alison, Princ. Cr. Law of Scot]. 227.