View synonyms for monkey wrench

monkey wrench

noun

alsocalledcomma especially British, adjustable spanner. a wrench having an adjustable jaw permitting it to grasp nuts or the like of different sizes.
something that interferes with functioning; obstacle:
He threw a monkey wrench into our plans.

monkey-wrench

[ muhng-kee-rench ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

to ruin (plans, a schedule, etc.) unavoidably or, sometimes, deliberately:
The storm monkey-wrenched our plans for a picnic.

to prevent, delay, or sabotage industrialization or development of wilderness areas, especially through vandalism.

monkey wrench

First recorded in 1855–60

First recorded in 1800–10

And you know what could really throw a monkey wrench into the whole effort?

Whenever these dissentions brought matters to a standstill, I would have to get out and apply the monkey-wrench of peace.

If Monkey-wrench screws down hard on me, you'll come to the rescue, won't you, Colonel?

Then Mac thrust his hand in between the two, and gave the Colonel a monkey-wrench grip that made the Kentuckian's eyes water.

"I think that's a crazy-looking monkey-wrench you've got there," observed Annixter, glancing at the instrument in Hooven's hand.

It seemed a good suggestion, and taking the monkey wrench they broke open every locker.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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