yellowjackets
|yel-low-jack-ets|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈjɛloʊˌdʒækɪts/
🇬🇧
/ˈjɛləʊˌdʒækɪts/
(yellowjacket)
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
'Yellowjacket' has been used in American English since the 19th century to describe this type of wasp.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred specifically to the wasp's appearance, but now it also implies its aggressive nature.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/06/24 02:20