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.
If Starship doesn’t work as promised, that would be a giant monkey wrench, said Caleb Henry, an analyst with Quilty Space. Jeremy Bogaisky, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 Blyth plays Cal, a jumpy and cocksure construction manager who is very much the third wheel — or more like the monkey wrench — in the recent couple formed by Leonie and the considerably older Horn. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025 But the legislation may have thrown a monkey wrench into the city of San Diego’s ambitious plans to phase out natural gas in buildings — including existing homes — within the city limits. Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Aug. 2025 However, two factors can throw a monkey wrench into the mix. Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 7 Aug. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Monkey wrench.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/monkey%20wrench. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

monkey wrench

noun
: a wrench with one fixed and one adjustable jaw

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