Definition

Noun: - A type, kind, or class of people or things, often used to suggest a group sharing similar, typically negative, characteristics. It implies a category or sort.

Usage

The word "ilk" is used to categorize or group people or things that are considered to be of the same type, often with a critical or dismissive tone. It is commonly found in the phrase "of that/his/her/their ilk."

Examples

• I can't tolerate people of his ilk; they are always so rude.
• The politician and others of his ilk were known for their extreme views.
• We don't entertain ideas of that ilk in this academic department.

Advanced Usage

• "Of that ilk": This is the most common construction. It means "of that same kind or type." Historically, in Scottish usage, it meant "of the same place or name" (e.g., "Guthrie of that ilk" meant Guthrie of Guthrie).
  • The novel features villains, thieves, and others of that ilk.

Variants and Related Words

• Kind (n): A more neutral and common synonym for a category or type.
• Sort (n): Another neutral synonym for type.
• Type (n): A category of people or things having common characteristics.
• Stripe (n): (Informal) A type, kind, or category, often used in a similar way to "ilk" (e.g., "politicians of a different stripe").

Synonyms

• Kind
• Sort
• Type
• Class
• Variety
• Breed (often for animals or derogatorily for people)
• Stripe

Antonyms

• Opposite
• Contrary

Notes on Meaning

While "ilk" can be used neutrally, it frequently carries a pejorative connotation, grouping people or things viewed unfavorably. It is less commonly used for positive groupings.

Noun

1. a kind of person
   • We'll not see his like again
   • I can't tolerate people of his ilk