ape
6 synonyms for ape, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan.
“The zoo's new enclosure lets visitors watch the apes up close.”
2. verb
To copy or imitate someone or something, often badly.
“The new sitcom just apes the jokes from an older, better show.”
How to use ape
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ape a style
go ape (informal: to go wild)
Etymology
From Old English apa, an ancient Germanic word for monkey or ape, of uncertain deeper origin.
Full origin of ape →Frequently asked questions
What does “ape” mean?
The word “ape” means a large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan. In plain terms, either the animal (a tailless primate) or, as a verb, copying someone's behaviour or style.
How do you pronounce “ape”?
“Ape” is pronounced ayp (/eɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “ape” in a sentence?
Here is “ape” used in a sentence: “The zoo's new enclosure lets visitors watch the apes up close.”
What part of speech is “ape”?
Depending on how it is used, “ape” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “ape” come from?
The word “ape” comes from Old English. From Old English apa, an ancient Germanic word for monkey or ape, of uncertain deeper origin.
Is “ape” a common word?
“Ape” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “ape” have?
“Ape” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan.
