ape

//eɪp//
B1Frequency Level 10Neutral
Visual representation of ape

Noun

apeSingular
apesPlural
1

A large tailless primate, such as a gorilla, chimpanzee, orangutan, or gibbon.

Gorillas and chimpanzees are types of apes.

2

An unintelligent or clumsy person (informal, often derogatory).

Don't be such an ape—think before you act!

Verb

apeInfinitive
apePresent tense
apedPast tense
apedPast participle
apingPresent participle
apesThird-person singular
1

To imitate or mimic someone's behavior, actions, or mannerisms, often in a clumsy or unthinking way.

The child apes everything his older brother does.