hornet

noun

hor·​net ˈhȯr-nət 

plural hornets

: any of the larger vespid wasps (genus Vespa) that usually build large papery nests in shrubs and trees see also european hornet, northern giant hornet, yellow-legged hornet compare bald-faced hornet

Examples of hornet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Let’s cover the differences between wasps and hornets, as well as an easy trick for telling them apart. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 13 Aug. 2026

Fighting for attention in the vast and crowded American sports landscape can be a hornet’s nest. — Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 31 July 2026

Invasive Asian hornets have made their way to Union County after first arriving in Georgia. — Eva Flowe july 29, Charlotte Observer, 29 July 2026

Too many people initially respond to seeing wasps or hornets in their garden by calling a pest control company. — Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English hernet, from Old English hyrnet; akin to Old High German hornaz hornet, Latin crabro

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing hornet

• Asian giant hornet
• Asian hornet
• bald-faced hornet
• European hornet
• giant hornet
• hornet's nest
• Japanese giant hornet
• murder hornet
• northern giant hornet
• white-faced hornet
• yellow-legged hornet

Rhymes for hornet

• cornett

Kids Definition

hornet

noun

hor·​net ˈhȯr-nət 

: any of the larger wasps that live in colonies