The Year of the Monkey (Everything You Need to Know)

Year of the Monkey: Personality, Luck, Love and Language in Chinese Zodiac

Today, we are learning about all the exciting facts of the Year of the Monkey: 猴年 (hóu nián)

Year of the Monkey is the 9th of the lunar year cycle.

Monkeys are clever and charming. They are a fascinating zodiac sign.

In this blog, we’ll discuss its origins, traits, compatibility with other signs, and cultural significance.

Years of the Monkey Includes:

1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

Year of the Monkey || A Brief Origin Story

Year of the Monkey || Meaning in Chinese Culture

Year of the Monkey || Personality Traits and Characteristics

Year of the Monkey || In Friendships, Relationships, and Work

Year of the Monkey || Celebrities

Year of the Monkey || Chinese Medicine

Year of the Monkey || Lucky and Unlucky Symbols

Year of the Monkey || Naming Year of the Monkey Children

Year of the Monkey || Monkey in Chinese Language

Year of the Monkey || FAQs

Year of the Monkey || A Brief Origin Story

The monkey is known for its cleverness and agility in moving around.

At first, it was running behind. However, it noticed the goat and rooster working together to cross the river and decided to collaborate.

The rooster found a raft, and the monkey and sheep helped gather everyone to sail across the river. Once they reached the other side, the monkey dashed ahead and reached the ninth position.

Year of the Monkey || Meaning in Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture, the Monkey is an intelligent and clever symbol that sometimes may also cause trouble.

People see those born in the Year of the Monkey as witty, inventive, and curious.

They have a knack for solving problems creatively.

孙悟空 (Sūn Wùkōng), The Monkey King, is a famous Chinese literary character from the classic novel Journey to the West 西游记 (Xī Yóu Jì).

He is known for his great strength, agility, and mischief while accompanying his master and two other members to the West for the sacred scripts. He has managed to beat off many monsters and evils. That’s why he’s such a beloved memory in many people’s childhood.

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Dragon (A Complete Guide) Thumbnail

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Dragon (A Complete Guide)

Everything You Need to Know About the Year of the Dragon🐉 Personality, Compatibility and Lucky Symbols 2024 is coming and that means one thing: it’s the Year of the Dragon (龙年 lóng nián)! In this 12-part blog post series, we’re…

 Year of the Monkey || Personality Traits and Characteristics

People born in the Year of the Monkey possess endless energy and curiosity.

They are always playful and charm others with their wit. They are always ready to entertain and keep things exciting.

Monkeys are quick thinkers and adaptable, making them excellent problem solvers. Their curiosity drives them to learn and explore.

However, their mischief can sometimes lead them to test boundaries. Their restless nature makes them easily bored.

Overall, they are vibrant, clever, and fun to be around. Does this sound similar to any Monkey friends around you? Let us know in the comments!

Year of the Monkey || In Friendships, Relationships, and Work

🫂 The Monkey Zodiac in Friendship

People born in the Year of the Monkey are fun and sociable. They tend to be the center of the party. That makes them great at making friends and keeping the group entertained.

They love adventure and are fun companions for people. But sometimes, they can be too playful and test the patience of serious friends.

💖 The Monkey Zodiac in Relationships

Monkeys are affectionate and charming partners. They love to keep romance lively and surprise their partners with spontaneous plans. They enjoy new experiences and thrive in exciting relationships.

But not everyone can keep up with their restless nature. People of Monkey Year may be more compatible with those who are still and appreciate their upbeat personality.

Monkeys are likely more compatible with people born in the Year of the Rat, Dragon, and Snake.

💼 The Monkey Zodiac At Work

In the workplace, Monkeys are quick, resourceful thinkers. They excel at problem-solving and creative tasks.

They adapt and thrive in dynamic environments. Challenges are always welcomed in their lives.

In contrast, monkeys may not prefer routine tasks that value standards. They love jobs that offer variety and mental stimulation.

Monkeys are natural leaders. They thrive on change. Their enthusiasm inspires teams to embrace uncertainty.

Typically, Monkeys would work well with Ox, Rabbit, and Dragon signs.

Year of the Monkey || Celebrities

Based on the above descriptions, you might not be surprised that these celebrities were born in the Year of the Monkey.

Tom Hanks: 1956

Celine Dion: 1968

Miley Cyrus: 1992

Will Smith: 1968

Daniel Craig: 1968

Christina Aguilera: 1980

Elizabeth Taylor: 1932

Demi Lovato: 1992

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Tiger (A Complete Guide) Thumbnail

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Tiger (A Complete Guide)

The Year of the Tiger 🐯 Everything You Need to Know || Luck, Culture and Compatibility In this 12-part blog post series, we’re taking you on a tour of the Chinese zodiac animals. From what they represent to how they…

Year of the Monkey || Chinese Medicine

Some parts of the monkey, like its brain, were thought to have medicinal properties. In ancient times, people thought eating monkey brains would boost brainpower and cure brain disorders.

However, people no longer use these practices because the belief is outdated. It is not in accordance with modern ethical standards and has been discontinued.

The monkey’s vibrant nature embodies “Yang” energy in Chinese medicine. It represents dynamism and warmth, which are vital for balance and well-being.

Year of the Monkey || Lucky and Unlucky Symbols

Lucky Symbols for the Year of the Monkey

Lucky Numbers: 4 and 9

For a Monkey, 4 means stability. 9 means completeness and eternal life.

Lucky Colors: White, Blue, and Gold

White symbolizes purity and clarity. Blue represents calmness and wisdom. Gold is a universal symbol of wealth and prosperity. They all draw positive energy into Monkey’s life.

Lucky Flowers: Chrysanthemum and Allium

The chrysanthemum symbolizes longevity and vitality. Alliums symbolize protection and good fortune with their unique shape and vibrant colors.

Unlucky Symbols for the Year of the Monkey

Unlucky Numbers: 2 and 7

Unlucky Colors: Red and Pink

Unlucky Direction: South

Year of the Monkey || Naming Year of the Monkey Children

These characters are well-suited if you have a baby born in the Year of the Monkey.

CHINESE & ROMANIZATIONENGLISHMEANING

zhì
WisdomIt shows the intelligence and cleverness of the Monkey. These traits are highly valued in Chinese culture.

yǒng
CourageIt embodies the fearless spirit of the monkey, (yǒng), and wishes for adventure and bravery.

líng
SpiritIt captures the lively nature of the monkey and symbolizes a quick-witted spirit.

ruì
AuspiciousIt brings blessings and prosperity, perfect for a child born under the lucky sign of the monkey.

qiǎo
SkillfulIt honors the monkey’s resourceful ability to navigate challenges creatively.

JoyIt reflects a cheerful, optimistic outlook linked to the monkey’s playful, joyful nature.

Do you have a Chinese name already? If not, we’ve got you covered. Fill in our Chinese Name Generator, and we’ll select one for you! 

Year of the Monkey || Monkey in Chinese Language

hóu nián mǎ yuè

猴年马月

“The Year of the Monkey and the Month of the Horse”

This phrase is often used to describe something that is unlikely to happen or will happen in the distant future.

猴子捞月

hóu zi lāo yuè

“The monkey trying to fish out the moon”

This comes from a popular Chinese fable where a monkey sees the moon’s reflection in the water and tries to catch it.

It reminds people to understand reality and not be deceived by illusions.

hóu jí

猴急

“Monkey’s Impatience”

It’s used to describe someone who is very impatient or anxious, as a monkey is usually unable to sit still and always jumps around.

Qí Tiān Dà Shèng

齐天大圣

“Great Sage Equal to Heaven”

This comes from the classic novel Journey to the West( 西游记 , Xī Yóu Jì).

Heaven gave the monkey the title, but it flattered his ego and made him a rebellious character.

Want to explore the influence of the zodiac animals on Chinese culture, chat about food or learn some new idioms? Check out our Flexi Classes for on-demand Chinese lessons you can take whenever you like. No awkward time-zone challenges and no awkward fixed schedules. 

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Snake (Ultimate Guide) Thumbnail

Chinese Zodiacs || Year of the Snake (Ultimate Guide)

Everything You Need to Know About the Year of the Snake🐍 Personality, Compatibility and Lucky Symbols In this 12-part blog post series, we’re taking you on a tour of the different Chinese zodiac animals. From what they represent to how…

Year of the Monkey || FAQs

How did the Monkey secure the ninth position in the Great Race?

The Monkey collaborated with the Ox and Rooster to cross the river on a raft. Once they reached the other side, the Monkey quickly dashed ahead to secure the ninth position.

What personality traits are common among people born in the Year of the Monkey?

People born in the Year of the Monkey are known to be intelligent, playful, and extremely curious. They are quick thinkers, love challenges, and often bring excitement to those around them.

What are some lucky symbols for people born in the Year of the Monkey?

Lucky symbols for Monkeys include the numbers 4 and 9 and the colors of white, blue, and gold.

Are there any celebrities born in the Year of the Monkey?

Yes, Tom Hanks (1956), Will Smith (1968), and Miley Cyrus (1992) are born in the Year of the Monkey.

How is the Monkey represented in Chinese language?

In Chinese culture, the Monkey is associated with cleverness and mischief. For example, 猴年马月 hóu nián mǎ yuè describes something unlikely to happen. While 猴急 hóu jí refers to impatience, reflecting the monkey’s lively nature.

Have you ever watched Journey To The West? Share your thoughts about it here!

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