spider monkey

American  

noun

• spider monkeys
  plural

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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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• spider monkeys
  plural

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Etymology

Origin of spider monkey

First recorded in 1755–65

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

spider monkey

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

From Los Angeles Times ● May 17, 2025

He had spent the morning at his Culiacan clinic checking up on several patients, including a 4-year-old spider monkey named Elisa who had been hit by a car after escaping from her owner’s home.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 17, 2024

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

From Salon ● Dec. 14, 2023

At least six spider monkey species living in Central and South America are considered endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2023

Twelve horses and a giraffe with a spider monkey hanging from its neck.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

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