monkey wrench
To introduce problems, to create unexpected trouble, to sabotage.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“His sudden change of plans threw a monkey wrench into our day.”
“The new government regulations threw a monkey wrench into our project, forcing us to delay the launch by several months.”
“The unexpected resignation of the lead architect threw a significant monkey wrench into the construction timeline, leaving the entire development team scrambling for a solution.”
first recorded 19th c.
Already in use, and not unfamiliar among mechanics, by 1832; see discussion and references at Monkey wrench § Etymology and history.
- 01
as clever as a cartload of monkeys
Very clever, cunning or mischievous.
- 02
barrel of monkeys
Someone or something very amusing or funny, fun, mischievous, etc.
- 03
brass monkey
Very cold.
- 04
brass monkeys
Very cold.
- 05
cheeky monkey
An impudent person, usually a child.
- 06
get one's monkey up
To make someone angry, annoyed or irritated.
- 07
grease monkey
A mechanic, often with the specific connotation of an automobile mechanic.
- 08
like butter on a bald monkey
Very smooth.
Last updated August 10, 2026