noun

pillock

Pillock (noun) means British informal term for a stupid or annoying person. Example: “Don't be such a pillock — you've locked the keys inside again.”

noun

British informal term for a stupid or annoying person.

"Don't be such a pillock — you've locked the keys inside again."

How to use pillock

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA mild British insult meaning idiot or fool.

When to use it

Informal and mainly British; comparable in tone to "muppet" or "plonker."

Easily confused with

pillow →

Word forms

pillocks plural

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Don't be such a _____ — you've locked the keys inside again.

Etymology

Originally slang for "penis" in the 16th century, later softened into a general insult for a foolish person.

· First attested 1500

Class of 1500 pillock joined the language around 1500.

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Synonyms

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stupid dolt stupe dullard poor fish pudden-head pudding head stupid person

Related words

stupid dumb idiot fool intelligent clever foolish moron

Frequently asked questions

What does “pillock” mean?

The word “pillock” means british informal term for a stupid or annoying person. In plain terms, a mild British insult meaning idiot or fool.

How do you use “pillock” in a sentence?

Here is “pillock” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a pillock — you've locked the keys inside again.”

What part of speech is “pillock”?

“Pillock” is a noun.

Where does the word “pillock” come from?

The word “pillock” dates back to around 1500.

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