A collective noun describes a group of animals, people, or things regarded as a single entity. For monkeys, several accepted terms exist, reflecting the varied nature of primate social structures. The most widely recognized and generally accepted term for a group of monkeys is a “troop.” This word is often used across many different monkey species, signifying their communal living and social behavior.
The Most Common Collective Nouns
The term “troop” is the primary collective noun for monkeys, suggesting a cohesive, mobile unit that travels and forages together. Monkeys are highly social animals that maintain complex hierarchies, making “troop” a fitting descriptor for their organized group dynamics. A troop can contain a few dozen individuals, whose members rely on the group for defense against predators and assistance in raising their young.
Other playful or less formal collective nouns are occasionally used to describe a group of monkeys. The term “barrel” of monkeys is a whimsical phrase suggesting a large, lively, and energetic gathering. This usage highlights the animal’s reputation for constant, boisterous activity. “Cartload” of monkeys is a less common but recognized term, usually employed to emphasize a large, unruly number of primates. The noun “tribe” is also sometimes applied, emphasizing a distinct, familial group with shared ancestry and territory.
Collective Nouns Based on Specific Species
Nomenclature becomes more specific when referring to groups of certain primate genera or species. A group of baboons is most commonly referred to as a “troop,” reflecting their highly structured social units that can number in the hundreds. Some sources also cite “band” or “flange” as alternative collective nouns for baboons. The term “band” emphasizes the strong social bonds and close-knit nature often seen in groups of primates.
Specific collective nouns are sometimes applied to other primates, including those closely related to monkeys. A group of gorillas, for example, is often called a “band,” but sometimes a “whoop” due to their vocalizations. For the great apes, the term “shrewdness” is a traditionally recognized collective noun, suggesting their high intelligence and complex problem-solving abilities. These terms demonstrate the nuance in collective noun usage across the primate order.
Clarifying the Difference Between Monkeys and Apes
Understanding the difference between monkeys and apes provides context for why their collective nouns might vary. The most noticeable distinction is the tail, which nearly all monkeys possess and use for balance or grasping, while apes have no tail. Monkeys generally have narrower chests and a skeletal structure better suited for running across branches on all fours.
Apes, which include gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons, are typically larger and have broader chests and more flexible shoulder joints. This anatomy allows them to swing easily through trees, a movement known as brachiation. Apes also have a larger brain-to-body-size ratio than monkeys, which correlates with their advanced problem-solving skills and more complex social behaviors. These biological differences reinforce the distinction in their classification and the specific terms used to describe their social groupings.