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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 The missile launch that interrupted the social night out was a foretaste of Pyongyang’s ability to throw a monkey wrench into regional relations. Michael Auslin, Foreign Affairs, 16 Feb. 2017 This does, of course, throw a monkey wrench into the possibility of sustaining a relationship. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 21 Feb. 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 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

monkey wrench

noun
: a wrench with one fixed and one adjustable jaw

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