donkey

How to Split "donkey" into Syllables

The word donkey is divided into 2 syllables: don·key. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• don — 1st syllable
• key — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of donkey:

• IPA: /ˈdɒŋki/

📖 Definitions

1. donkey (plural donkeys or (obsolete) donkies)
2. A domestic animal, Equus asinus asinus, similar to a horse.

📚 Word Origin & History

The origin is uncertain. Originally a slang term from the late eighteenth century. Perhaps from Middle English *donekie (“a miniature dun horse”), a double diminutive of Middle English don, dun, dunne (a name for a dun horse), equivalent to modern English dun (“brownish grey colour”) + -ock (diminutive suffix) + -ie (diminutive suffix), or similarly formed from the given name Duncan. Compare Middle English donning (“a dun horse”), English dunnock. Became more common than the original...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down donkey into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare donkey with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
donkey	2	don·key
dingos	2	di-ngos
Dominica	4	do-mi-ni-ca
diatomic	3	dia-to-mic
Deng	1	deng

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to donkey:

don, Dona, dong, Donn, don't, Donna, Donne, Donny.