/dong"kee, dawng"-, dung"-/ , n. , pl. donkeys , adj.
n.
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.
adj.
5. Mach. auxiliary: donkey engine; donkey pump; donkey boiler.
[ 1775-85; perh. alter. of Dunkey, hypocoristic form of Duncan, man's name ]