donkey

[dong-kee, dawng-, duhng-]

noun

plural

donkeys 

1. the domestic ass, Equus asinus.

2. (since 1874) a representation of this animal as the emblem of the U.S. Democratic Party.

3. a stupid, silly, or obstinate person.

4. a woodworking apparatus consisting of a clamping frame and saw, used for cutting marquetry veneers.

adjective

1. Machinery.,  auxiliary.

   donkey engine; donkey pump; donkey boiler.

donkey

/ ˈdɒŋkɪ /

noun

1. Also called: ass. a long-eared domesticated member of the horse family ( Equidae ), descended from the African wild ass ( Equus asinus )

2. a stupid or stubborn person

3. slang,  a footballer known for his or her lack of skill

   the players are a bunch of overpriced and overrated donkeys

4. to talk endlessly

donkey

1. A symbol (see also symbol) of the Democratic party, introduced in a series of political cartoons by Thomas Nast during the congressional elections of 1874. (Compare elephant.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of donkey¹

First recorded in 1775–85; of uncertain origin; perhaps alteration of Dunkey, diminutive name or pet form of Duncan, man's name; perhaps a derivative of dun “dull, grayish brown”

Word History and Origins

Origin of donkey¹

C18: perhaps from dun dark + -key, as in monkey

Example Sentences

Heavy rains and flash floods that hit Tarasin village triggering the disaster on Sunday have continued, meaning donkeys are the only way to reach the affected families.

From BBC

Water buffalos, cows and donkeys share dirt roads with cars, motorbikes and horse-drawn carts.

From BBC

Along the way, he gets help from a ragtag bunch of misfits, including a chatty donkey and, later, a boot-wearing cat.

From BBC

Palestinian farmers going about their business in vans or on donkeys used to be a common sight.

From BBC

You could get by gondola up to the mouth of the Euclid trail, where the donkey trolleys dragged the sledges up toward Baldy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• burro 
• horse 
• mule