Meaning & Definition of Donkey in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A domesticated member of the horse family, used for carrying loads and as a working animal.

  Example Sentence: The farmer loaded the cart onto the donkey for transport.

• Definition: A silly or stubborn person.

  Example Sentence: Don't be such a donkey; just listen to the advice!

Etymology

Origin: Middle English 'donkey', possibly a diminutive of 'donk', from the earlier 'donkey' as a term for a young horse or a pony.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• donkey work: The tedious, menial tasks that are often unpleasant.
• stubborn as a mule: Very stubborn, resistant to change or persuasion.
• donkey's years: A very long time.

Translations

• Spanish: burro

• French: âne

• German: Esel

• Russian: осел

Related Words

• burro: A small donkey, especially one from the southwestern United States.

• jackass: A male donkey, often used informally to refer to a foolish person.

Slang Meanings of donkey

• Meaning: A person who is foolish or annoying.

  Example Sentence: He acted like a complete donkey during the meeting.

• Meaning: Referring to someone who is stubborn.

  Example Sentence: Don't be a donkey; try to see their point of view.