ilk
UK: ɪlk | US: ɪlk
n. a type or kind of people or things (often used with "that" or "the same")
adj. of the same kind or class (archaic)
The word "ilk" originates from Old English ilca, meaning "same," derived from Proto-Germanic *ilīkaz. It was historically used in Scots and Northern English dialects to mean "of the same place or family," as in "MacGregor of that ilk" (MacGregor of the same name/clan). Over time, its usage broadened to denote "type" or "kind," though it often retains a slightly archaic or formal tone. Unlike many English words, "ilk" is monomorphic—it cannot be broken into smaller meaningful morphemes while preserving its original spelling.
She dislikes politicians of that ilk.
The store sells books, stationery, and items of that ilk.
He and his ilk dominate the industry.
The term refers to artists and their ilk.
Such behavior is typical of his ilk.