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

A baby spider monkey discovered by the California Highway Patrol this week is in critical condition, but the Oakland Zoo hopes she will make a full recovery.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2025

Marcel is the first spider monkey confiscated in Madera County, Toler said, so she phoned the nearby Fresno Chaffee Zoo and asked for advice on the monkey’s care.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2025

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

It had a pony ride, a wooden train that bustled around the parking lot, a few bedraggled parrots, and a surly spider monkey.

From "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate