monkey puzzle

noun

1. a South American, coniferous timber tree, Araucaria araucana, having candelabralike branches, stiff sharp leaves, and edible nuts.

monkey puzzle

noun

1. a South American coniferous tree, Araucaria araucana, having branches shaped like a candelabrum and stiff sharp leaves: family Araucariaceae Also calledChile pine

Word History and Origins

Origin of monkey puzzle¹

First recorded in 1865–70; perhaps from the intertwined arrangement of its limbs

Word History and Origins

Origin of monkey puzzle¹

so called because monkeys allegedly have difficulty climbing them

Example Sentences

A monkey puzzle rocket burst, spluttering in darting crackles.

From Project Gutenberg

Araucaria imbricata, the Chile pine, or “monkey puzzle,” was introduced into Britain in 1796.

From Project Gutenberg

"He's a sort of walking monkey-puzzle, I guess," said the voice, and a roguish laugh followed the words.

From Project Gutenberg