Ateles

/əˈteɪliːz/ noun

Definition

A genus of large South American primates, commonly known as spider monkeys, which are tailless or have only a small vestigial tail.

Etymology

From Greek 'ateles' (incomplete, imperfect), referring to the incomplete or absent tail that distinguishes these monkeys from other primates with full tails.

Kelly Says

Spider monkeys' scientific name literally means 'incomplete' because early naturalists noticed they lacked proper tails—but ironically their arms are incredibly long and prehensile, making them look almost incomplete in reverse!

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