mule

mule · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, used as a beast of burden.

  2. 2.

    A type of backless shoe or slipper.

  3. 3.

    (Slang) A person who smuggles drugs or other contraband.

  4. 4.

    A stubborn person.

Forms

plural: mules

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    stubborn as a mule — Extremely obstinate or unwilling to change
  • •
    kick like a mule — To kick very hard

Related words

See also: donkey, horse, hybrid
Synonyms: hybrid, pack animal

Etymology

From Old French mul, from Latin mulus ("mule"). The footwear sense comes from Latin mulleus calceus ("red shoe").