Berk

Berk (noun / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: Burk, Right berk, Berks)

Definition:

A berk is an idiot or a fool.

Where Berk Comes From:

The usual explanation is that it is short for “Berkeley Hunt”, Cockney rhyming slang for a much ruder word, though most people who use it have no idea.

How People Actually Use Berk:

Used as a mild, old-fashioned insult: “you silly berk”. It sounds more teasing than angry.

Is Berk Rude?

Mildly rude. It is tame today, but the rhyming slang root is crude.

Examples in the Wild:

• “Don’t be such a berk.”Meaning: Don’t be so silly.
• “He looked a right berk in that hat.”Meaning: He looked foolish in that hat.
• “I left my keys in the door like a berk.”Meaning: I foolishly left my keys in the door.

Similar Slang:

Muppet, Plonker, Numpty, Wally

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