Monkeying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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monkeying
[ˈmʌŋkiɪŋ ]
Definition
playful behavior
Monkeying refers to playful or mischievous behavior, often involving physical activity. It can describe actions that are silly or non-serious, similar to how monkeys behave. People sometimes use this term in casual conversation to indicate someone is goofing off or not taking things seriously. In some contexts, it can also imply meddling or tampering with something.
Synonyms
fooling, frolicking, gamboling, mucking around.
Examples of usage
- The kids were monkeying around in the playground.
- Stop monkeying with the computer settings!
- He spent all day monkeying instead of studying.
- They were monkeying about during the meeting.
Translations
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Origin of 'monkeying'
The term 'monkeying' derives from the noun 'monkey,' which has its origins in the late Middle Ages. The exact etymology of the word 'monkey' is uncertain, but it is believed to have been borrowed from the Middle Dutch word 'moneke,' a term of endearment. In the 1600s, 'monkey' started being used in English to describe various small primates as well as to refer to a person who behaves in a silly or playful manner. The verb 'monkey' began to take on a playful connotation, suggesting lightheartedness and mischief, which evolved into the usage of 'monkeying' to point at playful antics or foolish behavior. Over time, this expression has infiltrated multiple areas of informal speech, illustrating both literal mimicry of monkeys and metaphorical expressions of childish, reckless, or carefree actions.