Berk (Origin)

by Craig Shrives

What Is the Origin of the Saying "Berk"?

Berk is derogatory term for an idiot or a fool, but it is considered less harsh.

Actually, the term is derived from cockney rhyming slang. It is a shortened version of Berkshire Hunt, which suggests it shouldn't be considered less harsh at all!

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Berk (Origin)

Examples of Use:

  • Don't put glass in the landfill bin, you berk.
  • Try not to be an argumentative berk tonight, Simon.
  • She constantly takes short-cuts that undermine the project, proving that she's bit of a berk as a project manager.
  • His lack of common sense and poor decision-making skills indicate that he's something of a berk.

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What are idioms? What is figurative language? A list of common grammar errors A list of easily confused words A list of sayings and proverbs