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Definition of donkey

donkey

/ˈdɒŋ.ki/
don · key
Plural:donkeys
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donkey Lexical Profile

donkey Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A domesticated hoofed mammal of the horse family with long ears and a braying call, widely used as a beast of burden.

Example

"The farmer used a sturdy donkey to carry heavy sacks of grain up the steep mountain path."

2

A foolish, stupid, or obstinate person.

Example

"He realized he was acting like a donkey when he stubbornly refused to accept any advice from his experienced colleagues."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for donkey
Antonyms
View all antonyms for donkey

• Rhymes for donkey

• Nearby Words

dong nai
dong river
dongle
donkey
donkeywork
donna
donne

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 18th century: perhaps from 'dun' (referring to the animal's typical brownish-grey color) combined with the diminutive suffix '-key', or possibly a familiar diminutive form of the given name Duncan.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Donkey. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/donkey
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