beast of burden

noun

1. an animal used for carrying heavy loads or pulling heavy equipment, as a donkey, mule, or ox.

beast of burden

noun

1. an animal, such as a donkey or ox, used for carrying loads

Word History and Origins

Origin of beast of burden¹

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

"It feeds into this new narrative that cattle were perhaps important as beasts of burden," she said, adding cows could be used to carry more lightweight kit.

From BBC

The number of wild burros roaming pine forests and sagebrush fields has grown in recent years, with experts worried that the miniature beasts of burden could overwhelm rare and endangered species of plants.

From Los Angeles Times

Such an estimation makes the Targaryen name the beast of burden hauling most of the narrative, which has so far amounted to half-empty crates.

From Salon

The image of the burro as a miner’s faithful beast of burden contrasts starkly with ecological reality, experts say.

From Los Angeles Times

But hidden among those beasts of burden is the Volvo V60 and its unique blend of performance, high fuel efficiency and utility.

From Seattle Times