Simian means relating to apes and monkeys, or resembling them. Scientists use this word when discussing our primate relatives: chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, and the many species of monkeys that swing through trees or forage on the ground.

When someone describes a movement as simian, they mean it looks like something an ape or monkey would do. A rock climber might use long arms and powerful grips in ways that seem simian. A person swinging from bar to bar on playground equipment moves with simian agility.

Biologists study simian behavior to understand how primates think, communicate, and solve problems. Because humans share many physical and mental traits with other primates, comparing human and simian characteristics helps scientists understand our own evolutionary history.

You might encounter this word in nature documentaries, biology classes, or books about animal behavior. It's a precise, scientific term that treats our primate cousins with the respect they deserve as some of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.