grease monkey

noun

Slang.

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

grease monkey

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of grease monkey¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Every chair in the cavernous warehouse space, which was arrayed with giant inflatable denim-bedecked bombshells and grease monkeys, was full.

From New York Times

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