# and the like

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/and-the-like
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

And other similar items; et cetera.

## Examples

- We need to buy some bread, milk, and the like.
- The store sells notebooks, pens, markers, and the like for your office needs.
- The museum displays ancient pottery, tools, jewelry, and the like to illustrate the daily life of the civilization.

## Origin

First recorded in the 16th century, the phrase replaced the earlier and other like.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.