paper wasp: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1technical, everyday (in regions where they are common)
Quick answer
What does “paper wasp” mean?
A social wasp that builds characteristic nests from paper-like material, created by chewing wood fibers mixed with saliva.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A social wasp that builds characteristic nests from paper-like material, created by chewing wood fibers mixed with saliva.
The term can be used metaphorically to describe something that appears delicate or constructed from flimsy materials but can be aggressive or painful when provoked, similar to the insect's nature.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is identical in reference. Regional differences concern prevalence and public awareness, as certain genera (e.g., Polistes) are more common in North America.
Connotations
Conveys a specific ecological/entomological image. In the UK, might be less familiar to the general public compared to 'common wasp' or 'hornet'.
Frequency
Higher frequency in North American English due to greater prevalence and visibility of native species.
Grammar
How to Use “paper wasp” in a Sentence
A paper wasp built [a nest] [under the eaves].We were advised to avoid [disturbing] the paper wasps.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “paper wasp” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- A large paper wasp nest was attached to the garden shed.
- Paper wasps are less likely to be attracted to your picnic than common wasps.
American English
- We had to call an exterminator to deal with the paper wasps under the deck.
- The paper wasp's nest has a distinctive open-comb structure.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in pest control contexts.
Academic
Common in entomology, ecology, and biology texts.
Everyday
Used when discussing garden pests, wildlife, or summer nuisances in affected regions.
Technical
Precise taxonomic term for Polistinae.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “paper wasp”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “paper wasp”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “paper wasp”
- Using 'paper wasp' to refer to any wasp found near paper or cardboard.
- Capitalising it as a proper name (unless starting a sentence).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They can sting repeatedly if provoked and their nests are disturbed, which can be dangerous for allergic individuals. However, they are generally less aggressive than some other social wasps.
Do not disturb it. Contact a professional pest control service for safe removal, especially if the nest is large or in a high-traffic area.
Paper wasps (Polistinae) have longer, more slender bodies, build open-comb nests, and are often less aggressively defensive. Yellowjackets (Vespula/Dolichovespula) are stockier, often build enclosed nests in the ground or cavities, and can be highly aggressive.
Yes, they are important predators of caterpillars and other insects, helping to control pest populations in gardens and agricultural settings.
A social wasp that builds characteristic nests from paper-like material, created by chewing wood fibers mixed with saliva.
Paper wasp is usually technical, everyday (in regions where they are common) in register.
Paper wasp: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpeɪ.pə ˌwɒsp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpeɪ.pɚ ˌwɑːsp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A paper tiger (conceptual link: something that appears threatening but is ineffectual, unlike the actually potent paper wasp)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a wasp that is an architect: it chews wood and spits out PAPER to build its home.
Conceptual Metaphor
Fragile-looking source of potent threat; engineered fragility.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary material of a paper wasp's nest?