The spelling of the phrase "made monkey of" is phonetically represented as /meɪd ˈmʌŋki əv/. In this phrase, "made" is pronounced as "mayd," "monkey" is pronounced as "muhng-kee," and "of" is pronounced as "uhv." This phrase is commonly used to describe someone who has been made a fool of or tricked by someone else. The origins of this phrase can be traced back to British English slang in the 1800s, where "monkey" was used to refer to a person who was easily fooled.
To "make a monkey of someone" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of ridiculing, embarrassing, or causing someone to appear foolish or incompetent. It involves treating someone in a manner that belittles or humiliates them, often in a public or mocking manner. This phrase is typically used when someone intentionally sets out to make another person the object of ridicule or amusement, making them look like a fool or the target of jokes.
The term "make a monkey of someone" is derived from the notion of monkeys being associated with silly or comical behavior due to their mischievous nature and tendency to imitate human actions. When this phrase is used, it suggests that the person being made a monkey of is being manipulated or tricked, leading to their public embarrassment or humiliation.
This expression is commonly employed when someone is subjected to a practical joke, sarcastic remarks, or deceptive acts that not only mock their intelligence or abilities but also undermine their self-esteem. It implies a disrespectful and demeaning treatment, highlighting the intention to provoke public laughter or derision at the expense of the person being made a monkey of.
Overall, "making a monkey of someone" describes the act of deliberately embarrassing or ridiculing an individual through acts, words, or manipulative behavior, resulting in their public humiliation and mockery.