Silly Billy
Appearance
See also: silly billy
English
[edit]Alternative forms
[edit]Etymology
[edit]Nickname of Prince William Frederick (1776–1834), Duke of Gloucester; also of William IV of the United Kingdom (1765–1837)
Noun
[edit]Silly Billy (plural Silly Billies)
- An epithet used in mild teasing for a silly person, or one who has just done something of a foolish nature.
Usage notes
[edit]Denis Healey, British politician, was known for using the term as a catchphrase. This originated with Mike Yarwood's famous impression of him, although he later used it himself in parliament.