monkey wrench

noun

1
: a wrench with one fixed and one adjustable jaw at right angles to a straight handle
2
: something that disrupts
threw a monkey wrench into the peace negotiations

Illustration of monkey wrench

Illustration of monkey wrench
  • monkey wrench 1

Examples of monkey wrench in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And sometimes, the real world throws a monkey wrench into our virtual desk jobs—like when a port strike causes supply chain delays and middleware operators suddenly have to juggle hundreds of changes. Joe Hudicka, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024 Not being a creature of Washington, Trump, upon winning in 2016, naively put his trust in plenty of disloyal Washington types who spent more time throwing monkey wrenches at him than good advice. Michael Zais, Orlando Sentinel, 24 Nov. 2024 Despite the cleanup efforts, Biden’s comment — mangled or otherwise — threw a monkey wrench into the Harris campaign’s plan to highlight her pledge to govern for all Americans, regardless of party. Dan Mangan, CNBC, 30 Oct. 2024 Things like unpredictable algorithm changes, a shift in how users behave or unforeseen competition can throw a monkey wrench into your analytics. Jason Hall, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for monkey wrench 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of monkey wrench was circa 1807

Dictionary Entries Near monkey wrench

Cite this Entry

“Monkey wrench.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/monkey%20wrench. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

monkey wrench

noun
: a wrench with one fixed and one adjustable jaw

More from Merriam-Webster on monkey wrench

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