grease monkey

American  

noun

Slang.

1. a mechanic, especially one who works on automobiles or airplanes.

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grease monkey British  

noun

1. informal a mechanic, esp one who works on cars or aircraft

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Etymology

Origin of grease monkey

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Schweighöfer is there to crack the safe, and Notaro is the grease monkey/pilot tasked with shepherding the squad to safety.

From Washington Post

Unfortunately in the last 10-20 years the perception of an automotive technician is a grease monkey.

From Washington Times

A grease monkey’s tomboy friend helps him woo a popular girl in their Los Angeles high school.

From Los Angeles Times

“Wish I had better news, son. I’m just an old grease monkey, but I’ve been climbing around boat engines for long enough to know the score.”

From Literature

Then, the crew from “Fast N’ Loud” helps struggling grease monkeys get it in gear in the new series “Garage Rehab.”

From Los Angeles Times