Howler monkey blowing top? (5)
I believe the answer is:
error
'howler' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for error that I've seen before include "Mistake or mishap" , "Miscarriage of justice" , "Faulty judgment" , "Trial and ___" , "wrong" .)