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up goes the donkey. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
up goes the donkey, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
up goes the donkey in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
up goes the donkey you have here. The definition of the word
up goes the donkey will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
up goes the donkey, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
Said to have originated from a travelling showman whose finale involved the hoisting of a donkey on a pole or ladder.
Phrase
up goes the donkey
- (obsolete) The performance begins.
Usage notes
- Used in conjunction with a required amount, to encourage the public to pay more money before the start of a show: e.g. "Twopence more, and up goes the donkey!"
References
- 1873, John Camden Hotten, The Slang Dictionary (under donkey)