n.; pl.Donkeys [ Prob. dun, in allusion to the color of the animal + a dim. termination. ] 1. An ass; or (less frequently) a mule. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. A stupid or obstinate fellow; an ass. [ 1913 Webster ]
Donkey engine, a small auxiliary engine not used for propelling, but for pumping water into the boilers, raising heavy weights, and like purposes. -- Donkey pump, a steam pump for feeding boilers, extinguishing fire, etc.; -- usually an auxiliary. -- Donkey's eye (Bot.), the large round seed of the Mucuna pruriens, a tropical leguminous plant. [ 1913 Webster ]