spider-monkey
Noun: - A type of New World monkey: "spider-monkey" refers to any monkey of the genus Ateles, characterized by long, slender limbs, a prehensile tail, and a small head. They are found in tropical forests of Central and South America and are known for their agile, acrobatic movement through the trees.
- (Describes the monkey's typical movement.)
- (Describes their social behavior.)
- (Describes a feeding activity.)
"to be as agile as a spider-monkey": an idiomatic comparison meaning to be extremely nimble and quick.
- The gymnast was as agile as a spider-monkey, performing flips with ease. (The gymnast is very nimble.)
"spider-monkey-like": an adjective describing movements or characteristics similar to those of a spider-monkey.
- His spider-monkey-like grip allowed him to climb the rock wall effortlessly. (His grip is strong and prehensile, like the monkey's tail.)
Spider monkey (n): a common alternative spelling without the hyphen.
- The spider monkey is known for its distinctive long arms. (Same meaning as "spider-monkey".)
Woolly spider monkey (n): a specific species of spider monkey (genus Brachyteles), also known as the muriqui.
- The woolly spider monkey is one of the largest New World monkeys. (A related but distinct species.)
- Ateles: the scientific genus name for spider-monkeys.
- New World monkey: a broader category that includes spider-monkeys, howler monkeys, and capuchins.
"monkey business": mischievous or dishonest behavior (not specific to spider-monkeys, but a general idiom).
- Stop your monkey business and focus on your homework. (Stop being mischievous.)
"to make a monkey out of someone": to make someone look foolish.
- He made a monkey out of his opponent in the debate. (He made the opponent look foolish.)