Hornet

/hˈɔːnɪt/

/ˈhɔɹnɪt/

[noun]

Hornet

[NOUN]

a large winged insect of the wasp family that builds papery nests in trees

What is a "hornet"?

A hornet is a large and aggressive wasp that typically builds its nests in trees or underground, known for its potent sting and distinct coloration. Hornets are social insects and live in colonies, with a queen leading the colony and workers carrying out various tasks such as foraging and nest building. They are known for their powerful flight capabilities and can be a source of fear and concern due to their stinging behavior.

Examples

1. His letter to the papers stirred up a real hornets' nest.

2. The principal entered the hornet's nest of angry parents.

3. The politician's off-the-cuff remark about pollution stirred up a hornet's nest among environmentalists.

4. My dad was mad as a hornet after I crashed his car.