- English translation
A foot that wanders is out either to steal or to bring shame.
- Literal wording
A foot that went around: either it stole or it brought disgrace.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that aimless roaming, such as prowling about and drifting from place to place, rarely comes from honest motives. Someone constantly on the move without good reason is presumed to be heading toward wrongdoing, whether taking what is not theirs or doing something dishonorable.
Because it presumes bad intent behind restless movement, the saying can become an unfair accusation when someone's wandering is innocent. It treats habitual drifting as a likely sign of theft or scandal, not as proof of either.
- When it is used
Used to cast suspicion on someone who keeps roaming about without clear purpose, especially at odd hours, implying they are seeking trouble. It suits warnings to others or remarks about a person's questionable habits, but it carries an accusing edge and should be applied with care.
- Register
- Colloquial Arabic
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: A foot that wanders is out either to steal or to bring shame.