British slang for a donkey, or sometimes a stupid or obstinate person—a diminutive or affectionate term.
From 'Edward,' a common name shortened as 'Ned,' then applied to donkeys (possibly from a nickname). Common in British dialect since the 19th century.
British and Irish slang often uses people names for animals—just like 'Molly' for a cow or 'Jenny' for a female donkey—a quirky naming pattern that spread across English-speaking cultures!
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