This phrase literally translates to 'Who gave the monkey peanuts?'. It is a colloquial expression used in some Latin American countries, often to question why someone, usually known to be quiet or not very active, is suddenly behaving in an outgoing or disruptive manner.
Examples
- Spanish: '¿Y quien le dio maní al mono?' preguntó Juan cuando vio a su hermano bailando en la mesa.
- English: 'Who gave the monkey peanuts?' Juan asked when he saw his brother dancing on the table.