# barrel of monkeys

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/barrel-of-monkeys
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Someone or something very amusing or funny, fun, mischievous, etc.

## Examples

- Spending time with my best friend is a barrel of monkeys.
- This comedy show is a barrel of monkeys.
- Your little cousins are a barrel of monkeys.
- The children were a barrel of monkeys during the long flight, keeping everyone around them entertained with their silly games.
- The new puppy is a barrel of monkeys because he constantly hides my socks and chases his own tail around the kitchen.
- Working with the creative team is a barrel of monkeys since they always tell jokes while we design new posters.
- While the formal gala was rather dull, the after-party proved to be a barrel of monkeys, filled with laughter and unexpected antics.

## Origin

The origin of the phrase is uncertain, though lexicographers suggest it may be an extension of the earlier constructions barrel of fun or barrel of laughs. The source material provides no specific dates of coinage nor the names of any individuals responsible for the expression's introduction into the lexicon. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.