IdiomAnimalsEnglish

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

More English idioms

Explore another collection: Proverbs

Short sayings of timeless wisdom from more than 50 cultures, each with its meaning and origin.

Browse all proverbs →

Keep exploring

Explore all idioms →