mules
word · lemma: mule
Definition
Plural of mule: (1) a hybrid animal that is the offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, used as a working animal, (2) a type of women's shoe that is backless and often has a closed toe.
Usage & Nuances
Used both for animals and for a type of shoe, depending on context. For shoes, always plural ('a pair of mules'). For animals, less common in everyday life but standard in rural or historical contexts. Do not confuse 'mules' (shoes) with 'mule' (animal) when reading fashion or travel content.
Example Sentences
The farmer owns three mules to help in the fields.
basic
She bought new mules for the summer.
basic
The zoo has mules and horses in the same area.
basic
I can't walk far in these mules—they keep slipping off my feet!
natural
Back in the day, mules were the main way to carry goods across the mountains.
natural
She slipped on her mules and rushed out the door to catch her ride.
natural