Langimage
English

yellowjacket

|yel-low-jack-et|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈjɛloʊˌdʒækɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈjɛləʊˌdʒækɪt/

aggressive wasp

Etymology
Etymology Information

'yellowjacket' originates from the combination of 'yellow' and 'jacket', referring to the wasp's distinctive yellow and black striped appearance.

Historical Evolution

The term 'yellowjacket' has been used in American English since the 19th century to describe these wasps.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred specifically to the wasp's appearance, and this meaning has remained consistent.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a type of wasp known for its yellow and black coloring, often aggressive and capable of stinging multiple times.

The picnic was interrupted by a swarm of yellowjackets.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/05/10 11:12