monkey crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're grappling with the "monkey crossword clue," you've landed on the perfect page. We've compiled all the possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. Whether you need a short, common solution or a longer, more specific term, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "monkey crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
APE: A common and often interchangeable term for a primate, frequently used for 'monkey' in puzzles.
5 Letters
CHIMP: Short for chimpanzee, a type of great ape often clued as a monkey.
ORANG: Short for orangutan, another great ape that can be loosely clued as a 'monkey'.
6 Letters
BABOON: A large, dog-faced monkey native to Africa and Arabia, a frequent crossword answer.
LANGUR: A slender, long-tailed monkey found in South Asia, often featured in more challenging puzzles.
7 Letters
PRIMATE: The broader scientific classification that includes monkeys, apes, and humans.
GORILLA: The largest primate, technically an ape, but sometimes loosely clued as a large 'monkey'.
More About "monkey crossword clue"
The clue "monkey" is a fascinating one in crosswords because it can encompass a wide range of animals, from the small marmoset to the mighty gorilla (which is technically an ape, but often included for brevity and common understanding in puzzles). This versatility means the answer could be a general term like APE or PRIMATE, or a specific species name. Crossword setters love to play with this ambiguity, challenging solvers to consider the exact letter count and context of surrounding clues.
When you encounter this clue, think about both Old World monkeys and New World monkeys, as well as the great apes often conflated with them in casual language. Terms like BABOON, CHIMP, or even specific types like LANGUR or VERVET, can all be valid answers depending on the required length. Pay attention to any additional words in the clue that might hint at a specific type or characteristic of a monkey, such as "tree-dweller" or "red-faced."
Understanding the common associations and biological classifications, while sometimes blurred in the crossword world, is key to cracking these clues. Our goal is to provide you with all the popular and less common answers, giving you the best chance to complete your puzzle without frustration.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by counting the available spaces in your grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "monkey."
- Think Broad and Specific: For clues like "monkey," prepare to think both broadly (e.g., APE, PRIMATE) and specifically (e.g., CHIMP, BABOON). Your best fit will depend on the length.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them! They can quickly reveal the correct answer among similar-length options.
- Look for Wordplay: Sometimes, "monkey" might be part of a pun or idiom. Be open to less literal interpretations, although for a direct clue, it usually refers to the animal.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many different answers for 'monkey'?
The clue 'monkey' can refer to a broad category of primates, various specific species (like chimpanzee, baboon), or even common nicknames. Crossword setters use this versatility to fit different letter counts or to introduce wordplay. Answers can range from general terms like 'APE' or 'PRIMATE' to specific animal names.
How can I distinguish between 'monkey' and 'ape' in crosswords?
While scientifically distinct, in crosswords, 'monkey' and 'ape' are often clued interchangeably, especially for shorter answers like 'APE' or 'CHIMP'. If the clue implies a specific feature like a tail (monkeys generally have them, apes do not), it might lean towards a monkey. Otherwise, consider both possibilities for different letter counts.
Are there common abbreviations for monkeys in crosswords?
Yes, 'CHIMP' for chimpanzee and 'ORANG' for orangutan are very common abbreviations found in crosswords. These short forms are popular for their brevity and widespread recognition, making them ideal for fitting into grids.