# Mona

/ˈmoʊnə/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mona
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a monkey

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a small monkey with a colourful face that lives in the forests of West Africa.

For teachers: a West African guenon (Cercopithecus mona) characterised by a white belly and a distinctively patterned face.

- The mona is known for living in large groups in the African rainforest.
- Researchers observed the mona foraging in the lower canopy, noting its preference for fruit and insects during the rainy season.

Usage: Usually refers specifically to the species Cercopithecus mona.

### 2. a female name

noun · CEFR A1

a common name for a girl or woman.

For teachers: a female given name found in multiple cultures, notably of Irish (meaning 'noble') or Arabic (meaning 'wishes') origin.

- Mona is a popular name in many different countries.
- The name Mona gained significant international recognition through Leonardo da Vinci's famous portrait, the Mona Lisa.

Usage: Capitalised as a proper noun.

## Examples

- I have a big meeting on mona.
- She sent a quick text saying she would be late on mona.
- The weekly newsletter arrives every mona, setting the tone for the work week ahead.

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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.