# bumblebee

/ˈbəmbəɫˌbi/ (US) · /bˈʌmbəlbˌiː/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bumblebee
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a small, round insect with yellow and black stripes that makes a buzzing sound while it flies. It carries pollen from flower to flower to help plants grow.

For teachers: a small, hairy insect of the family Apidae, characterized by a distinctive buzzing flight and a role in pollination. Often used to refer to the honeybee in general, though it technically refers to a specific genus.

## Examples

- The bumblebee lands on the flower to collect pollen.
- Gardeners often plant wildflowers to attract bumblebees and other pollinators to their yards.
- Unlike the more aggressive honeybee, the bumblebee is generally docile and plays a vital role in the pollination of crops that require a specific temperature to bloom.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.