Ilk 21 full semi. of that name; usually used when someone's family name has been mentioned…. " If you talk about people or things of the same ilk, you mean people or things of the same type as a person or thing that has been mentioned. ILK definition: family, class, or kind. What does 'Ilk' mean? Learn the definition of Ilk & other commonly used words, phrases, & idioms in the English language. Let the politicians and their ilk rant and rave, we must maintain a discreet silence. Feb 21, 2026 ยท In modern use, ilk is used in phrases such as of his ilk, of that ilk, to mean ‘type’ or ‘sort. . That ilk is synonymous with same, and persists chiefly in Scotland where it's used in the phrase "of that ilk," meaning "of the same place, territorial designation, or name. ’ It often – though not necessarily – has negative connotations. a particular type: 2.