sapajou
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of New World monkey: "sapajou" refers to any of several small to medium-sized monkeys of the genus Cebus, native to Central and South America. They are characterized by a prehensile tail, a cap-like patch of hair on the head (resembling a hood or cap), and high intelligence.
- Capuchin monkey: The term "sapajou" is a common name for the capuchin monkey, particularly those in the genus Cebus.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The sapajou swung gracefully through the rainforest canopy. (A capuchin monkey moved through the trees.)
- Zoologists observed the sapajou using a stick to extract insects from a log. (The monkey demonstrated tool use.)
- In the pet trade, the sapajou is sometimes kept for its playful behavior. (The capuchin monkey is kept as a pet.)
Advanced Usage
- "sapajou" as a taxonomic term: In scientific contexts, "sapajou" may be used to distinguish the genus from other New World monkeys, such as spider monkeys or howler monkeys.
- The sapajou is known for its social structure, living in groups of up to 20 individuals. (The capuchin monkey has a complex social system.)
Variants and Related Words
- Sapajou (n): variant spelling "sapajou" is less common than "capuchin monkey" in modern English, but it remains a valid term.
- The local guide pointed out a sapajou in the treetops. (The guide identified a capuchin monkey.)
Synonyms
Capuchin monkey: the more common English term for the same animal.
- The capuchin monkey is often trained to assist disabled people. (A sapajou is trained for assistance.)
Cebus monkey: a scientific synonym referring to the genus.
- Cebus monkeys are among the most intelligent primates. (Sapajous are intelligent.)
Related Idioms
- "Monkey business": (figurative) mischievous or dishonest behavior; not directly related to sapajous but associated with monkeys in general.
- The children were up to some monkey business in the backyard. (They were playing tricks.)