white-faced hornet

Thân thiện

A white-faced hornet builds its nest on a tree branch.

Definition

Noun: * A North American hornet (Dolichovespula maculata), characterized by distinctive black and white markings on its face and body. It is a social wasp known for building large, papery, above-ground nests and can deliver a painful sting.

Usage

This term is used specifically to refer to this species of hornet. It is a compound noun that functions as a single unit. * A large nest of white-faced hornets was found under the eaves of the house. * Unlike yellowjackets, the white-faced hornet has prominent white markings on its face. * It is advisable to stay away from a white-faced hornet nest to avoid being stung.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in entomology and wildlife contexts to precisely identify the species.
• It is often contrasted with other common stinging insects like yellowjackets or bald-faced hornets (which is another common name for the same species).

Variants and Related Words

• Bald-faced hornet (n): A common synonym for the same insect species (). The names "white-faced" and "bald-faced" are used interchangeably.
• Hornet (n): The general category of large, social wasps to which this species belongs.

Synonyms

• Bald-faced hornet
• (scientific name)

Notes on Meaning

• The "white face" in the name directly describes the insect's key identifying physical feature.
• While "hornet" is in the name, this species is taxonomically more closely related to other wasps like yellowjackets than to true hornets of the genus (e.g., the European hornet). This is a technical distinction not commonly made in everyday language.

Học thuật

Noun

1. North American hornet

Từ đồng nghĩa

• bald-faced hornet
• Vespula maculata