punch the monkey
Definition
A reference to a popular late-1990s internet banner ad and Flash game where users repeatedly click a button to 'punch' a cartoon monkey's face, symbolizing early web procrastination and addictive clicking.
Slang for clicking on dubious online banner advertisements, often those that install spyware or malware.
Vulgar slang for masturbation, implying vigorous action akin to 'punching'.
Examples
In the era of 56k modems, kids would punch the monkey all afternoon rather than touch their algebra homework.
Tech support's first question: 'Have you been punching the monkey on those pop-up ads again?'
Instead of finishing the report, Dave spent the meeting punching the monkey on a retro Flash site revival.
Grandpa reminisced about the good old days when 'punch the monkey' was the height of online entertainment—and zero percent safe.