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What is a donkey?
You all know what a donkey is right? If not, I’ll tell you…
A donkey is a domesticated mammal with hooves and is a member of the horse family. A donkey is smaller than a horse and has longer ears. They are used to help carry loads.
The word ‘donkey’ can be used as a mild insult for a stupid person.
e.g. The new apprentice is such a donkey, who employed him again?
Donkey Idioms List
Donkeys have inspired many colourful idioms in the English language, often reflecting their characteristics like stubbornness or hard work. This list explores popular donkey-related idioms, their meanings, and examples to help you understand and use them confidently in conversations. Perfect for English learners looking to expand their knowledge of animal idioms!
a donkey on the edge
meaning – someone who is about to lose their temper, reach breaking point, or act out of frustration
example – If this printer jams one more time, I’m going to be a donkey on the edge!
as stubborn as a mule
meaning – an extremely obstinate/stubborn person
example – Dean won’t come out. He’s made up his mind, he’s as stubborn as a mule.
donkey work
meaning – the hard/boring work
example – Once all the donkey work is out of the way, we can relax a bit.
donkey’s years
meaning – many years
example – I haven’t been to Scotland for donkey’s years.
talk the hind leg off a donkey
meaning – someone who talks a lot/for a long time
example – I hate Andrew’s meetings, they last hours. That man could talk the hind leg off a donkey.
You can download a table of donkey idioms and sayings below.
If you’ve enjoyed this page, don’t forget to check out some more animal idioms by clicking on the links below.