spider monkey

American  

noun

1. any of several tropical American monkeys of the genus Ateles, having a slender body, long, slender limbs, and a long, prehensile tail: some are endangered.

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spider monkey British  

noun

1. any of several arboreal New World monkeys of the genus Ateles, of Central and South America, having very long legs, a long prehensile tail, and a small head

2. a rare related monkey, Brachyteles arachnoides, of SE Brazil

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Etymology

Origin of spider monkey

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

In 2022, Dudley worked with collaborators in Panama to show that wild spider monkeys consume fermented fruit containing alcohol and later excrete alcohol metabolites in their urine.

From Science Daily

The 18-month-old spider monkey was taken to the Oakland Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital for treatment.

From Los Angeles Times

The investigation indicated that Dafar intentionally trafficked baby spider monkeys, despite the risk of separating them from their mothers, because he believed they were easier to hide.

From Los Angeles Times

The wider area is home to endangered river turtles, manatees and spider monkeys, and is part of a species-rich hotspot in one of the world's most biodiverse countries.

From BBC

“Cleverness. You see so many stickers saying I Brake For Squirrels, or Garage Sales or whatever. Brachiation is using your arms to swing through the tree branches, like gibbons and spider monkeys.”

From Los Angeles Times