Macaques are a diverse group of primates belonging to the genus Macaca. They are often referred to by a number of synonyms, including Old World monkeys, cercopithecines, and macacine monkeys. These terms are used to describe the characteristics of these primates, including their geographic range, their ancestry, and their genetic makeup. Macaques are found across a wide area of Asia, from Japan to India and from Tibet to the Philippines, and are known for their sociable nature and their intelligence. They are also used extensively in scientific research due to their physiological similarities to humans, making them an essential tool in advancing our understanding of various medical conditions.