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.
Some wasp types, such as paper wasps and yellow jackets, are known to build a nest even if another colony is nearby if the nesting site meets their criteria. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2025 The three most commonly encountered are hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets. Gabrielle Chenault, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 In general, social wasp (yellowjacket, paper wasp, and hornet) nest members die each winter, and nests are not repaired or reused the following year. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 27 Feb. 2025 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

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paper wasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paper%20wasp. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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!