A collective noun is a specific term used to describe a group of animals, people, or things, treating the collection as a single entity. English has developed many of these terms over centuries, sometimes based on observed behavior and other times on whimsical or historical references. These specialized names often add a layer of color to our descriptions of the natural world. The terms assigned to groups of primates, particularly monkeys, reflect both their organized social lives and folklore surrounding them.
The Most Common Collective Noun
The most widely accepted collective noun for a group of monkeys is a troop. This term is broadly applicable to many species, including Capuchins, Vervets, and Spider Monkeys, and it is the standard answer. The word “troop” implies a sense of organized movement, discipline, and a strong social structure. Observing monkeys in their natural habitat often reveals this organization, with individuals moving together, foraging as a unit, and defending their territory collectively.
Variations and Historical Terms
While “troop” is the scientific and common standard, several alternative, less common terms exist for groups of monkeys. Terms such as a barrel or a cartload are often encountered, though their usage is typically informal and historical. The phrase “more fun than a barrel of monkeys” suggests that the term “barrel” arose not from direct observation of natural behavior, but from folklore or the historical context of transporting animals. Similarly, a cartload refers to a large number of monkeys gathered together, evoking an image of crowded transport. These terms, along with a horde or a tribe, are less rooted in modern primatology and more in older texts or popular culture.
Why Apes Have Different Names
The collective nouns used for apes differ from those used for monkeys because they represent distinct taxonomic groups within the primate order. Apes (gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons) are generally larger, have broader chests, and lack tails; monkeys are typically smaller, narrower-chested, and possess tails, which they often use for balance or grasping. Due to these biological and behavioral differences, apes are assigned collective nouns that reflect their complex social dynamics. For example, a group of apes might be referred to as a shrewdness, highlighting their intelligence. Gorillas are often referred to as a band, emphasizing their strong family-like structure and cohesive group movements.