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monkey

Definition

  • noun: a type of animal that is closely related to apes and humans and that has a long tail and usually lives in trees
  • noun: a nonhuman primate mammal with the exception usually of the lemurs and tarsiers
  • verb: to act in a grotesque or mischievous manner
  • often used in the phrase 'monkey on one's back'
  • synonyms: mimic, ape, simian

Examples

  • The storm 'threw a monkey wrench into' their plans for a picnic. [=the storm ruined their plans for a picnic]

  • After many years of disappointment, she finally 'got the monkey off her back' by winning the championship.

  • Our teacher warned us not to try any 'monkey business' while she was out of the room.

Movie quotes

  • (..) It's going to be payback for anybody who crosses me. We have a crisis here and you stroII in an hour Iate? If I must put up with-- Back off, monkey boy... or I'II teII your dad you treat this pIace Iike your piggy bank. Or we shouId caII the IRS... and arrange a vacation for you at CIub Fed? (..)
    1994 The Mask