Is it “Monkeys” or “Monkeys” (Correct Grammar + Examples)

Is it monkeys or monkies? What is the plural form of the base word “monkey?” Making the plural form of the word “monkey” can be challenging. It ends in a -y, making the plural form not follow the most common singular plural form of adding an “s” letter and an apostrophe.

Learn how to pluralize the word monkey in this short guide.

What is a monkey? Where did the word monkey come from?

A monkey is a type of chimpanzee. The word “monkey” originated in a German version of the Reynard the Fox legend, published around 1580. The word “Moneke” happens to be an offspring of Martin the Ape.

Is it monkeys or monkies? Which is correct?

The correct plural form of the word monkey is “monkeys.” This is confusing since it goes against the traditional grammar rules for turning singular words into plural forms.

Why “monkeys” ends in a -y and “s” letter

Some words simply have an “s” added to the end of the word to create the plural form. Typically, a -y ending word will have its letter changed to “ies” in order to pluralize it. For example, party and parties.

“Monkey” is an exception to the rule, very similar to the word “chimney” and “chimneys.”

Sentence examples with monkeys

Here are sentence examples using the plural form of the word “monkey”:

• There are so many monkeys at the local zoo.
• The monkeys were playing in the band the other night.
• Monkeys in the Amazon are going extinct and we need to do something about this.

Is “monkies” ever used?

No, the correct plural form of the base word “monkey” is “monkeys.” Making the word “monkies” grammatically incorrect and should never get used in the English language.