Vespa
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun 1. A genus of social wasps: Vespa is the scientific genus name for a group of large, social wasps commonly known as hornets. These insects are known for their distinctive size, potent sting, and papery nests.
Examples
- The genus includes the Asian giant hornet.
- Entomologists study the behavior of species.
- A nest of , the European hornet, was found in the hollow tree.
Advanced Usage
- In scientific and entomological contexts, is always italicized as it is a Latin genus name. It is often followed by a species name to identify a specific type of hornet (e.g., ).
Variants and Related Words
- Hornet (n): The common name for most wasps in the genus .
- Vespid (n/adj): Relating to the family Vespidae, which includes (hornets), yellowjackets, and paper wasps.
- Wasp (n): A broader term for insects in the order Hymenoptera, which includes the genus .
Synonyms
- Hornet
Notes on Meaning
- Primary Meaning: The term is used almost exclusively in formal biological classification to refer to the specific genus. In everyday language, the common names "hornet" or "giant wasp" are used instead of the scientific name .
Noun
- type genus of the Vespidae: various hornets and yellow jackets