1. Home
2. Idioms
3. ape

ape

---

---

ape leader

obsolete A pejorative term for an older single woman; a spinster or old maid. From an old proverb that women who die unmarried are fated to lead apes—considered at the time to be unproductive animals—in hell. At the risk of being labeled an ape leader by ignorant people, I have chosen a life without marriage, and I am perfectly happy to do so.

See also: ape, leader

ape (someone's) behavior

To mimic the behavior of someone, generally in a mocking or derisive manner. It is pretty standard now for comedians to ape the president's behavior and manner of speech.

See also: ape, behavior

go ape (over someone or something)

Sl. to become very excited over something. I just go ape over chocolate. Sam went ape over Mary.

See also: ape

go ape

(slang)

to become very excited or angry Did you go ape over Tim's latest film, or did you just get disgusted, like me?

Usage notes: also used in the form go apeshit, which has the same meaning but is considered rude slang

See also: ape

go ape

  (informal) also go apeshit (taboo!)

to become very angry Vicky'll go ape when she sees this mess.

See also: ape

go ape

Become wildly excited or enthusiastic. For example, The audience went ape over the band. This idiom is a modern version of the older go berserk. It fancifully equates frenzy with an ape's behavior. [Second half of 1900s] Also see go bananas.

See also: ape

ape

n. a hoodlum or strong-arm man, especially if big and strong. (Underworld.) Tell your ape to let me go!

ape hangers

n. long steering handles on a bicycle or motorcycle. Who is that guy riding the bike with ape hangers?

See also: ape, hanger

aped

(ept)

mod. alcohol intoxicated. I’ve never seen my brother so totally aped before.

See also: ape

go ape (over someone/something)

in. to become very excited over someone or something. I just go ape over chocolate.

See also: ape

go ape

verb

See go ape over someone/something

See also: ape

go ape

Informal

To become wildly excited or angry: went ape at the party; went ape when she saw the parking ticket.

See also: ape