donkey

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal

n. someone who is very stubborn and refuses to change their mind.

n. a person characterized by obstinate or headstrong behavior.

“Stop being such a donkey and just listen to my advice.”

“His reputation as a donkey was well-earned, as he refused to compromise even when presented with overwhelming evidence against his position.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Slang

n. a player who makes bad decisions or plays poorly in a game of poker.

n. a derogatory term for an unskilled or weak poker player who plays too many hands or makes irrational bets.

“The professional player won easily because he was playing against a donkey.”

“The veteran gambler sat patiently at the table, waiting for the donkey to make a predictable mistake and lose his entire stack of chips.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Technology Technical

n. a small extra engine used on a ship or for heavy work.

n. a small auxiliary engine used for secondary purposes such as pumping water or powering winches on a vessel.

“The crew started the donkey to help lift the heavy cargo onto the deck.”

“Before the main boilers were fully pressurized, the engineers relied on the donkey engine to provide power for the ship's essential auxiliary systems.”