WordGarden.iodonkey
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɒŋki/
US
- /ˈdɑŋki/
Meanings
Noun
a domesticated hoofed animal related to the horse
an insulting term for a person regarded as stupid or foolish
Beyond the definition
A donkey is a long-eared animal from the horse family, often used to carry loads or help with farm work. It is known for being strong and sure-footed, and many people also think of it as stubborn. That idea comes more from its careful nature than from a lack of intelligence, because donkeys are smart animals and can form strong social bonds.
The word can also be used as a mild insult. If you call someone a donkey, you usually mean they are being silly, foolish, or a bit clumsy. It is often playful rather than harsh. In George Orwell's Animal Farm, Benjamin the donkey is quiet, wise, and skeptical, which shows that the animal can also carry very different ideas in stories.
The word "donkey" refers to a domesticated mammal belonging to the horse family, scientifically known as Equus asinus. For thousands of years, donkeys have been invaluable companions to humans, particularly in regions with rugged terrain. They're incredibly strong for their size and can carry heavy loads over long distances, making them essential for transportation, agriculture, and trade—especially in places where horses aren't well-suited. Think of the dusty trails of the Mediterranean or the mountainous landscapes of Africa; you'll often find donkeys diligently working alongside people.
Donkeys are known for their distinctive braying sound—a loud, echoing call that can travel quite a distance. They also have exceptional memories and are surprisingly intelligent animals capable of learning tasks and forming strong bonds with humans.
However, the donkey has also acquired a reputation for stubbornness. This isn't necessarily due to a lack of intelligence, but rather their cautious nature; they won't proceed if they perceive danger or feel uncomfortable. This trait led to the idiom "stubborn as a mule" (a mule being a cross between a donkey and a horse) and ultimately contributed to the use of "donkey" as a playful insult for someone perceived as foolish, silly, or obstinate.
So, whether you're picturing a hardworking animal carrying goods across challenging landscapes or playfully teasing a friend, the word "donkey" carries layers of history, practicality, and even a touch of lightheartedness.
Examples
- 1
Farm animals
The children fed a donkey at the farm.
- 2
Rural transport
In some villages, donkeys still carry water and supplies up steep hills.
- 3
Market scene
We saw a line of donkeys loaded with baskets at the market.
- 4
Boring work
I've written the report, but someone still has to do the donkey work and check every number.
- Phrasedonkey work
the hard, boring part of a job
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Informal insult
I left my phone on the bus again. What a donkey.
- Cautionwhat a donkey
a rude informal way to call someone silly; especially British English
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- donkeynoun
Forms
- donkeyspluralnoun