German word

Esel

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈeːzl̩/

Meaning

  • masculine noundonkey

Example

Auf dem Bauernhof sehe ich die Esel.

At the farm, I see the donkeys.

Illustration for Esel (donkey)

More examples

Er benahm sich wie ein Esel und weigerte sich zu helfen.

He behaved like a donkey and refused to help.

Core concept

A long-eared pack animal plods steadily under a load, while the same image can describe a foolish or stubborn person.

Common phrases

  • jemanden zum Esel machen

    make a fool of someone

  • stur wie ein Esel

    as stubborn as a donkey

  • auf den Esel steigen

    get on the donkey

Similar words

Maulesel: An animal born from a horse and a donkey, used especially for hauling loads.
Lastesel: A donkey used for carrying especially heavy loads.
Packtier: A broad term for an animal used to transport loads on its back.
Pferd: A large, fast-running farm animal kept for riding and work.

Definition in German

Ein domestiziertes, robustes Huftier mit langen Ohren, meist ruhiges und zähes Arbeitstier, das Lasten trägt und auf Bauernhöfen gehalten wird.

Word origin

German Esel goes back through Old High German esil to Latin asinus and is related to English ass.

Usage tips

  • Esel is masculine, with der Esel in the singular and die Esel in the plural; the plural has no ending.

Other meanings

  • foolnoun

Related words

  • Eselbrückemnemonic devicenoun
  • Eselsohrdog-earnoun

Word lists with this word