Meaning & Definition of word "Monkey"

Monkey

/ˈmʌŋki/

1. A small to medium-sized primate that typically has a long tail and is known for its agility and intelligence.
- Example: The children were thrilled to see a monkey swinging from branch to branch in the zoo.
2. A person who behaves in an exuberant or playful manner.
- Example: Stop being such a monkey and focus on your homework!
3. An informal term for a mischievous or playful person.
- Example: He's always been a bit of a monkey, making everyone laugh with his jokes.

1. To fool around or play, often in a mischievous way.
- Example: The kids were monkeying around in the park instead of playing soccer.
2. To tamper with or handle something in an inept or careless manner.
- Example: I don't want you monkeying with the settings on my computer.

Middle English 'monke', from Old French 'monchec', from Late Latin 'monachus' (monk).

monkey business:

Silly or mischievous behavior; trickery.

monkey see, monkey do:

Imitation or mimicry, often referring to children mimicking adults.

more than one way to skin a cat:

There are multiple ways to achieve the same result.

ape:

A tailless primate known for its intelligence.

primate:

A member of the biological order Primates, which includes humans, monkeys, and apes.

chimpanzee:

A great ape that is closely related to humans.

Meaning: A term used to describe a person who plays tricks or pranks.

Example Sentence: He's such a monkey, always pulling pranks on his friends.

Meaning: Referring to something that is chaotic or in disarray.

Example Sentence: This place is a monkey house right now with all the kids running around.