Monkey

/ˈmʌŋki/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small to medium-sized primate that typically has a long tail and is known for its agility and intelligence.

The children were thrilled to see a monkey swinging from branch to branch in the zoo.

A person who behaves in an exuberant or playful manner.

Stop being such a monkey and focus on your homework!

An informal term for a mischievous or playful person.

He's always been a bit of a monkey, making everyone laugh with his jokes.

verb

To fool around or play, often in a mischievous way.

The kids were monkeying around in the park instead of playing soccer.

To tamper with or handle something in an inept or careless manner.

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.

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

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

Referring to something that is chaotic or in disarray.

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