
IdiomAnimals
English
for donkey's years
Meaning: For a very long time.
Example: “I've known her for donkey's years.”
Origin: British English from the early 20th century, perhaps a play on "donkey's ears," which are long, and on the belief that donkeys live long.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Depuis belle lurette Literally: Since a fine little hour
More English idioms
- since time immemorial For longer than anyone can remember.
- cry one's eyes out To cry very hard and for a long time.
- much ado about nothing A lot of fuss about something unimportant.
- all grist to the mill Everything can be turned to use or advantage.
- in a pickle In a difficult situation.
- have one's work cut out To face a difficult task.
Explore another collection: Proverbs
Short sayings of timeless wisdom from more than 50 cultures, each with its meaning and origin.
- A man is not so soon healed as hurt. Wounds to body and spirit require far longer to mend than the swift moment of their infli…
- God healeth, and the physician hath the thanks. Skilled professionals receive credit for outcomes they facilitate, even when forces beyon…
- What the heart thinketh, the tongue speaketh. Unguarded speech reveals our true thoughts and character; we cannot conceal our inner nat…
Keep exploring