ape
ayp
Ape (noun) means a large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan. Example: “The zoo's new enclosure lets visitors watch the apes up close.”
noun
1
A large tailless primate such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, or orangutan.
"The zoo's new enclosure lets visitors watch the apes up close."
"Humans are technically classified as apes too."
verb
1
To copy or imitate someone or something, often badly.
"The new sitcom just apes the jokes from an older, better show."
"He apes his older brother's style right down to the haircut."
How to use ape
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither the animal (a tailless primate) or, as a verb, copying someone's behaviour or style.
Memory tip
As a verb it almost always has a slightly negative, unoriginal feel — "aping" someone means imitating without real understanding.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
ape a style
go ape (informal: to go wild)
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Word forms
- Plural
- apes
- Third person singular
- apes
- Past tense
- aped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The zoo's new enclosure lets visitors watch the _____ up close.
Etymology
From Old English apa, an ancient Germanic word for monkey or ape, of uncertain deeper origin.
Related words
Rhymes for ape
See all rhymes for 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.
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