bumblebee

noun

bum·​ble·​bee ˈbəm-bəl-ˌbē How to pronounce bumblebee (audio)
variants or less commonly bumble bee
: any of numerous large robust hairy social bees (genus Bombus)

Examples of bumblebee 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.
Leaves offer a spot for beneficial insects, including bumblebees and butterfly larvae, to overwinter. Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2025 When [ecologist Lars] Chittka gave bumblebees an extra jolt of sucrose, their favorite food, the bees buzzed with delight. Big Think, 25 Sep. 2025 Stark white leather uppers contrast with shiny asymmetrical green and red accents, plus whimsical bumblebee motifs. Amina Ayoud, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025 Leave the leaf litter Leaf litter supports hibernating queen bumblebees by providing them with a sheltered area for the winter. Special To The Denver Post, Denver Post, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bumblebee

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bumblebee was in 1530

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Cite this Entry

“Bumblebee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bumblebee. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

bumblebee

noun
bum·​ble·​bee ˈbəm-bəl-ˌbē How to pronounce bumblebee (audio)
: any of numerous large hairy social bees

More from Merriam-Webster on bumblebee

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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