monkey on one's back . monkey on one's back {n. phr.}, {informal} An unsolved or nagging problem. "My math course is a real monkey on my back," Jack complained. Compare: ALBATROSS AROUND ONE'S NECK, MILLSTONE AROUND ONE'S NECK. Categories: add yours {informal} {n. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: M Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Post my comment