Definition

Noun: 1. A type of arboreal monkey native to tropical America, characterized by its long, slender limbs and a long, prehensile tail that functions as a fifth limb for grasping and swinging.

Usage

The term "spider monkey" is used to refer to this specific genus (Ateles) of New World monkeys. It is a countable noun. - The spider monkey swung gracefully through the canopy using its tail. - Spider monkeys are known for their intelligence and complex social structures. - We saw a family of spider monkeys during our hike in the rainforest.

Advanced Usage

• The name "spider monkey" is derived from the creature's appearance, as its disproportionately long, thin limbs and tail resemble the legs of a spider.
• In zoological and ecological contexts, the term specifies primates of the genus , which are key seed dispersers in their habitats.

Variants and Related Words

• Ateles (n.): The scientific genus name for spider monkeys.
• Prehensile-tailed monkey (n.): A descriptive term that highlights the defining feature of spider monkeys and related species.

Synonyms

• There are no direct single-word synonyms. Descriptive phrases include "long-limbed monkey" or "monkey with a prehensile tail," but these are not specific to the genus.

Different Meanings

The term "spider monkey" has a single, specific zoological meaning and is not commonly used idiomatically or with other definitions.

Noun

1. arboreal monkey of tropical America with long slender legs and long prehensile tail