ilk
UK[ɪlk]US[ɪlk]
n
A type or kind of person or thing, especially one regarded as similar to those already mentioned.
Etymology
The word 'ilk' originates from the Old English adjective 'ilca', meaning "same," which is itself a compound of the demonstrative pronoun 'i-' (that) and the suffix '-līc' (like, body, form). It entered Middle English as 'ilke', retaining the meaning "same." Its modern usage, referring to a type or class, developed from the Scottish and Northern English phrase "of that ilk," which originally meant "of the same (place or name)." Over time, this phrase was reinterpreted, and 'ilk' alone came to signify a category or kind, losing its direct connection to sameness and instead implying a group sharing similar characteristics.
Analysis
The word 'ilk' is a simplex word of Old English origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in its modern English form.
Examples
He and others of his ilk are not welcome here.
The store sells neckties, scarves, and items of that ilk.
I have no time for politicians and their ilk.