# hornet

/ˈhɔɹnɪt/ (US) · /hˈɔːnɪt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hornet
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a large type of wasp that can sting. They are often black and yellow or orange and are known for being more aggressive than smaller wasps.

For teachers: a large, stinging social insect belonging to the genus Vespa, within the wasp family Vespidae. Distinguished from other wasps by the larger vertex of the head and the rounded segment of the abdomen.

## Examples

- A hornet flew into the kitchen through the open window.
- The gardener warned us to stay away from the old oak tree because a hornet nest was hidden in the hollow trunk.
- While a single hornet sting is rarely fatal to humans, the insect's ability to mobilize the entire colony through pheromones makes an disturbed nest a significant safety hazard.

## Usage notes

- The collective noun for a group is a 'nest' or 'swarm' of hornets.

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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.