guenon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “guenon” mean?
A small to medium-sized Old World monkey of the genus Cercopithecus, native to sub-Saharan Africa, typically having a long tail and often distinctive facial markings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small to medium-sized Old World monkey of the genus Cercopithecus, native to sub-Saharan Africa, typically having a long tail and often distinctive facial markings.
In broader or figurative use, can refer to any small, agile primate with similar characteristics, or be used metaphorically for something nimble, mischievous, or chattering.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral, scientific. No regional connotations.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects, confined to specialist fields.
Grammar
How to Use “guenon” in a Sentence
The [ADJECTIVE] guenon [VERBed] in the canopy.Guenons are [ADJECTIVE] primates that [VERB].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in biological, zoological, anthropological, and conservation studies.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would only be used by someone with a specific interest in primates.
Technical
The primary context. Used in taxonomy, ethology, veterinary medicine, and wildlife management.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “guenon”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “guenon”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “guenon”
- Mispronouncing it as /ˈɡwɛnən/ or /ˈɡjuːnən/.
- Using it as a general term for any monkey.
- Misspelling as 'genon' or 'guennon'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A guenon is a monkey, specifically an Old World monkey. Apes (like gorillas and chimpanzees) lack tails and are generally larger-brained.
In the wild, they are found only in sub-Saharan Africa. In captivity, they can be seen in zoos with primate exhibits that feature African wildlife.
The standard plural is 'guenons'.
No, it is a low-frequency, specialist term. The average English speaker is unlikely to know or use it.
A small to medium-sized Old World monkey of the genus Cercopithecus, native to sub-Saharan Africa, typically having a long tail and often distinctive facial markings.
Guenon is usually technical/scientific in register.
Guenon: in British English it is pronounced /ɡəˈnɒn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡəˈnɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. The word is too technical for idiomatic use.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'The GUardian of the ENvirONment is the guenon, a monkey living in African forests.'
Conceptual Metaphor
AGILITY/CHATTER: 'She moved through the crowd with the quick, chattering grace of a guenon.'
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'guenon'?