Kilroy

noun

Kil·​roy

ˈkilˌrȯi

plural -s

: an inveterate traveler

like the roamers Kilroy and Ulysses

—Peter Viereck

especially : a transient soldier

of all the Kilroys of history who have passed through here … it was Napoleon who best summed up the strategic importance of Malta

—J. P. O'Donnell

Word History

Etymology

after Kilroy, mythical soldier of World War II whose name was inscribed in unlikely places all over the world by American soldiers

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now