I. ˈməŋ-kē noun
( plural monkeys )
Etymology: probably of Low German origin; akin to Moneke, name of an ape, probably of Romance origin; akin to Old Spanish mona monkey
Date: circa 1530
1. : a nonhuman primate mammal with the exception usually of the lemurs and tarsiers ; especially : any of the smaller longer-tailed catarrhine or platyrrhine primates as contrasted with the apes
2.
a. : a person resembling a monkey
b. : a ludicrous figure : dupe
3. : any of various machines, implements, or vessels ; especially : the falling weight of a pile driver
4. : a desperate desire for or addiction to drugs — often used in the phrase monkey on one's back ; broadly : a persistent or annoying encumbrance or problem
II. verb
( mon·keyed ; mon·key·ing )
Date: 1859
transitive verb
: mimic , mock
intransitive verb
1. : to act in a grotesque or mischievous manner
2.
a. : fool , trifle — often used with around
b. : tamper — usually used with with