dillinger: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Specialist, historical, informal (when used metaphorically)
Quick answer
What does “dillinger” mean?
A proper noun primarily referring to John Dillinger, a notorious American bank robber during the Great Depression.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun primarily referring to John Dillinger, a notorious American bank robber during the Great Depression.
Often used as a cultural reference or metaphor for a charismatic, daring, or infamous outlaw; can also refer to things named after him, such as firearms, songs, or films.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, it is almost exclusively a historical/cultural reference. In American English, it carries stronger cultural resonance and may be used more readily in informal metaphors due to the figure's place in national folklore.
Connotations
In both varieties, connotations are of notoriety, bold criminality, and a certain anti-establishment charisma. In the US, there may be an additional layer of folk-hero mythology.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general English. Slightly higher in American English in contexts discussing crime history or as a cultural touchstone.
Grammar
How to Use “dillinger” in a Sentence
[be] + a/the + Dillinger + of + [field/era][verb: resemble/outwit/evade] + like + DillingerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dillinger” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He had a certain Dillinger-like charm about him.
- The escape was pure Dillinger bravado.
American English
- That was a Dillinger-style bank job.
- He's got a Dillinger attitude.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used. A potential metaphor for a disruptive competitor, but highly atypical.
Academic
Used in historical, sociological, or criminology papers discussing Depression-era America, media, and crime.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used in informal comparison: "He ran out of the shop like Dillinger!"
Technical
In firearms contexts, may refer to specific models (e.g., Dillinger derringer). In film/cultural studies, refers to biographical works.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dillinger”
- Using it as a common noun without 'the' or an article (e.g., 'He was Dillinger' vs. 'He was a Dillinger').
- Misspelling as 'Dilinger' or 'Dillinger'.
- Using it without sufficient cultural context, causing confusion.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily a proper noun (the name of John Dillinger). It can be used informally as a common noun in metaphorical expressions (e.g., 'a Dillinger'), but this is non-standard and relies on the proper noun as its source.
No, it is a specific cultural reference. It is most appropriate for describing criminals perceived as daring, charismatic, and media-savvy, often those who evade capture in a dramatic fashion. Using it for a petty thief would be hyperbolic and inappropriate.
The difference reflects the typical pronunciation of the letter 'r' at the end of the word. In British (RP) pronunciation, the final /r/ is not pronounced unless followed by a vowel. In American English, the rhotic /r/ is always pronounced.
It is a low-frequency, culturally-specific term. It is not essential for basic communication but is useful for advanced learners engaging with American history, crime literature, or film studies, as it is a recurring cultural touchstone.
A proper noun primarily referring to John Dillinger, a notorious American bank robber during the Great Depression.
Dillinger is usually specialist, historical, informal (when used metaphorically) in register.
Dillinger: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɪlɪndʒə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɪlɪndʒər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Doing a Dillinger" (making a daring escape)”
- “"A regular Dillinger" (a mischievous or daring person, often said of a child)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: DILL + INGER. The DILLy outlaw who was IN GERiatric years? No, he died young! Remember him as the 'Dillinger' who was a 'daring lingerer' outside banks.
Conceptual Metaphor
A DILLINGER IS A DARING OUTLAW. (Used to map attributes of boldness, notoriety, and evasiveness onto a person/entity.)
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'Dillinger' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?