capuchin

American  

[kap-yoo-chin, -shin] / ˈkæp yʊ tʃɪn, -ʃɪn /

noun

1. a Central and South American monkey, Cebus capucinus, having a prehensile tail and hair on the head resembling a cowl.

2. any monkey of the genus Cebus.

3. a hooded cloak for women.

4. Also called Friar Minor Capuchin.  (initial capital letter) a friar belonging to the branch of the Franciscan order that observes vows of poverty and austerity.

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Capuchin ¹ British  

/ ˈkæpjʊtʃɪn, ˈkæpjʊʃɪn /

noun

1. 1. a friar belonging to a strict and autonomous branch of the Franciscan order founded in 1525

   2. ( as modifier )

      a Capuchin friar

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capuchin ² British  

/ -ʃɪn, ˈkæpjʊtʃɪn /

noun

1. any agile intelligent New World monkey of the genus Cebus, inhabiting forests in South America, typically having a cowl of thick hair on the top of the head

2. a woman's hooded cloak

3. (sometimes capital) a rare variety of domestic fancy pigeon

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Etymology

Origin of capuchin

1590–1600; < Middle French < Italian cappuccino, equivalent to cappucc ( io ) capuche + -ino -ine ¹

Example Sentences

The immune performance of wild capuchin monkeys declines when the animals experience higher temperatures, and younger monkeys seem to be particularly vulnerable to heat, according to a University of Michigan study.

From Science Daily

She currently studies cooperation and other social behaviors in capuchin monkeys.

From Science Daily

If a species is a generalist, able to adapt to its circumstances — think about the racoons or deer in your suburban neighborhood, or the capuchin in this study — it may need less help.

From Salon

The authors point out that New Caledonian crows, Goffin's cockatoos, woodpecker finches, bearded capuchins, bottlenose dolphins, orangutans, gorillas and sea otters can also use tools flexibly.

From Salon

Some, like the spider monkey, effortlessly swing through branches, while others, like the capuchin, display remarkable problem-solving abilities.

From Salon