monkey block: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (Technical/Rare)Technical (Maritime, Construction, Rigging); Historical
Quick answer
What does “monkey block” mean?
A type of temporary lifting apparatus or tackle block used in rigging, construction, or maritime contexts, often featuring multiple sheaves and used for complex hoisting operations where flexibility is required.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of temporary lifting apparatus or tackle block used in rigging, construction, or maritime contexts, often featuring multiple sheaves and used for complex hoisting operations where flexibility is required.
Can refer to any temporary, improvised, or lightweight block-and-tackle system used for small-scale lifting. In some contexts, it may be used metaphorically for a temporary or makeshift solution to a logistical problem.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Equally rare in both dialects. More likely to be encountered in historical texts or specialized trade contexts (shipyards, rigging). No significant dialectal variation in meaning.
Connotations
Technical, historical, practical. Evokes imagery of manual labour, sailing ships, or construction sites.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Primarily found in niche technical manuals, historical accounts of sailing, or among enthusiasts of traditional rigging.
Grammar
How to Use “monkey block” in a Sentence
[Verb] + monkey block: rig/use/attach/secure/set up a monkey block[Adjective] + monkey block: temporary/improvised/small/light monkey blockVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “monkey block” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They decided to monkey-block the crates up to the loft.
- We'll need to monkey-block this scenery into position.
American English
- We monkey-blocked the engine out of the boat.
- The crew monkey-blocked the supplies onto the roof.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as a standard adverb.
American English
- Not applicable as a standard adverb.
adjective
British English
- They set up a monkey-block system for the temporary lift.
- It was a clever monkey-block solution to the problem.
American English
- We used a monkey-block rigging for the job.
- He devised a monkey-block arrangement to move the beam.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Might appear in historical engineering, maritime history, or material culture studies.
Everyday
Extremely unlikely. Would cause confusion.
Technical
Primary domain. Used in rigging, sailing, heavy lifting, stagecraft (for flying scenery), and some construction contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monkey block”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monkey block”
- Confusing it with 'monkey wrench' (a tool).
- Using it in non-technical contexts where 'pulley' or 'hoist' is meant.
- Assuming it is common modern vocabulary.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare and highly technical term used primarily in specific trades like rigging, sailing, and construction.
A monkey block is a specific type of pulley block, often lighter, temporary, or part of a more complex tackle system. 'Pulley' is the general term; 'monkey block' is a specific application.
It is not recommended, as it will likely not be understood. Use more common terms like 'pulley', 'hoist', or 'block and tackle' instead.
The etymology is uncertain but likely refers to its smaller size and agility (like a monkey), or possibly from nautical slang where 'monkey' could denote something smaller or subordinate.
A type of temporary lifting apparatus or tackle block used in rigging, construction, or maritime contexts, often featuring multiple sheaves and used for complex hoisting operations where flexibility is required.
Monkey block is usually technical (maritime, construction, rigging); historical in register.
Monkey block: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmʌŋki blɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmʌŋki blɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated. Potentially related to 'to monkey around' if used carelessly.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a small, clever monkey (the block) helping to lift a banana (the load) by cleverly running a rope through a tree branch (the sheave).
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOL IS AN ANIMAL (small, agile, useful for specific tasks); TEMPORARY SOLUTION IS A PRIMATE (improvised, clever, but not as strong as a permanent 'beast' of a machine).
Practice
Quiz
In which context are you MOST likely to encounter the term 'monkey block'?