Langimage
English

ape

|ape|

B2

/eɪp/

primate or mimic

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ape' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'apa', where it referred to a primate.

Historical Evolution

'apa' transformed into the Middle English word 'ape', and eventually became the modern English word 'ape'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a primate', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a large primate that lacks a tail, including gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons.

The zoo has a new exhibit featuring a family of apes.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to imitate or mimic someone or something, often in a mocking way.

He aped his teacher's mannerisms to make his friends laugh.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39