squirrel-monkey
Definition
- Noun:
- A small, arboreal monkey: "squirrel-monkey" refers to any of several small, agile monkeys of the genus Saimiri, native to tropical forests of Central and South America. They are characterized by a slender body, a long non-prehensile tail, a white face with a black muzzle, and a habit of moving quickly through trees.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The zoo has a new exhibit featuring a troop of squirrel-monkeys. (A group of these small monkeys is on display.)
- Researchers observed the squirrel-monkey foraging for insects and fruit in the canopy. (Scientists watched the monkey searching for food high in the trees.)
- A squirrel-monkey's tail is used for balance, not for grasping branches. (The tail helps the monkey stay steady while moving.)
Advanced Usage
"squirrel-monkey behavior": refers to the social and foraging patterns typical of this species.
- The squirrel-monkey's complex vocalizations are used to communicate danger within the group. (The sounds help warn others of threats.)
"squirrel-monkey habitat": the specific environment where these monkeys live.
- Deforestation threatens the squirrel-monkey's natural habitat in the Amazon. (Loss of forest endangers their home.)
Variants and Related Words
Squirrel monkey (n): an alternative spelling (with a hyphen or without) of the same term.
- A squirrel monkey is often kept as a pet in some regions. (The animal is sometimes domesticated.)
Saimiri (n): the scientific genus name for squirrel-monkeys.
- Saimiri sciureus is the common squirrel-monkey species. (The scientific name for one type.)
Synonyms
- No direct synonyms: "squirrel-monkey" is a specific common name; related terms include:
- New World monkey: a broader category that includes squirrel-monkeys.
- Capuchin: a different but similar-looking monkey (not a synonym).
Phrasal Verbs
- No phrasal verbs: "squirrel-monkey" is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs.
Related Idioms
- No idioms: "squirrel-monkey" is not used in common English idioms.