paper wasp

noun

: a vespid wasp (especially genus Polistes) that builds a nest of papery material

Examples of paper wasp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The yellowjackets, paper wasps, hornets, and even honey bees are wandering around looking for easy-to-lick spots of honeydew and ignoring the lanternflies themselves. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 7 Nov. 2024 Arizona's warm climate supports a lengthy wasp season, with common species including yellowjackets, paper wasps and hornets. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 16 Aug. 2024 When people approach too closely or disturb their nest, paper wasps may sting in defense. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 16 Aug. 2024 Yellowjackets and paper wasps are the two most common social wasp species in Northern California, Kimsey said. Brianna Taylor, Sacramento Bee, 21 July 2024 Mustard yellow paper wasps Wasps with yellow bodies and brown markings. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 14 Feb. 2024 This time of year, hornets, yellowjackets, and paper wasps are all building new nest sites. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 9 May 2024 Among these are black widow spiders; the formidable Arizona bark scorpion, known for its venomous sting; and the strikingly colored mustard yellow paper wasps, recognized for their distinctive nests and painful stings. The Arizona Republic, 14 Feb. 2024 Wasps Several species of paper wasps are also considered beneficial to gardeners. Dan Nosowitz, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paper wasp was in 1853

Dictionary Entries Near paper wasp

Cite this Entry

“Paper wasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paper%20wasp. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

paper wasp

noun
: a wasp that builds a nest out of papery material

More from Merriam-Webster on paper wasp

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!