# autem diver

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/autem-diver
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Pickpockets who practice in churches; also churchwardens and overseers of the poor.

## Examples

- The old church warned visitors to watch out for the autem diver.
- During the crowded Sunday service, the suspicious man acting like an autem diver was escorted out by the staff.
- Historical records describe the autem diver as a cunning thief who preyed upon the pious while they knelt in prayer.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.