erk

[ urk ]

noun

, British Slang.

1. an aircraftsman of the lowest rank in the Royal Air Force.
2. a worthless, stupid person; jerk.

erk

/ ɜːk /

noun

1. slang.
   an aircraftman or naval rating

Word History and Origins

Origin of erk¹

First recorded in 1920–25; earlier naval slang for any noncommissioned rank; of uncertain origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of erk¹

C20: perhaps a corruption of AC (aircraftman)

Example Sentences

The next day he was installed as a clerk in the office of Peter Van Erk, one of the principal merchants in the city.

From Project Gutenberg

The large public hall in which meetings of the sort were generally held was nearly filled by the time the Van Erk party arrived.

From Project Gutenberg