spider monkey

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.

spider monkey

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. woolly spider monkey
   a rare related monkey, Brachyteles arachnoides, of SE Brazil

Word History and Origins

Origin of spider monkey¹

First recorded in 1755–65

Word History and Origins

Origin of spider monkey¹

C18: so called because its long limbs resemble the legs of a spider

Example Sentences

These spider monkeys, a large-bodied species reaching up to 20 pounds, only eat ripe fruits, which they prefer to forage high in the tree canopy.

From Salon

They speak their own language, take ayahuasca to connect with forest spirits and trap spider monkeys to make soup or keep as pets.

From New York Times

It is illegal in Mexico to own spider monkeys, which are critically endangered and trafficked from jungles in the country’s south.

From Los Angeles Times

The deforestation along the route has been catastrophic for the habitats of species like jaguars, scarlet macaws and spider monkeys, they say.

From BBC

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

From Salon