hornet
/'hɔ:nit/
Definition
Noun: A hornet is a large, social wasp known for its powerful sting. Hornets build paper-like nests and are generally more aggressive than common wasps, especially when their nest is disturbed.
Examples
- The loud buzzing sound came from a hornet flying near the window.
- Be careful not to disturb the hornet nest hanging from the tree branch.
- A hornet sting can be very painful and dangerous for people who are allergic.
Advanced Usage
- "To stir up a hornet's nest": This idiom means to cause a lot of trouble or provoke a strong, angry reaction by interfering in a sensitive situation.
- The journalist's article on political corruption really stirred up a hornet's nest.
Variants and Related Words
- Hornet's nest (noun phrase): The physical nest built by hornets, or metaphorically, a situation full of hidden problems and potential conflict.
- He accidentally knocked down a hornet's nest with his ladder.
- The new policy turned out to be a political hornet's nest.
Synonyms
- Wasp: A more general term for stinging insects in the same family, though hornets are a specific, larger type of wasp.
- Yellowjacket: A type of wasp often confused with hornets, but typically smaller and with brighter yellow markings.
Related Idioms
- "To bring a hornet's nest about one's ears": An older idiom similar to "stir up a hornet's nest," meaning to bring serious trouble upon oneself.
- His accusations brought a hornet's nest about his ears.
Noun
-
large stinging paper wasp
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