spider-hunting wasp: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “spider-hunting wasp” mean?
A wasp that hunts spiders to provision its nest.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A wasp that hunts spiders to provision its nest.
A common name for wasps of the family Pompilidae, known for stinging and paralyzing spiders to feed their larvae.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage. Both use the hyphenated form. 'Spider wasp' is a possible informal variant in both.
Connotations
Neutral/scientific in both. Conveys precision about insect behavior.
Frequency
Equally rare in general conversation but standard in entomological contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “spider-hunting wasp” in a Sentence
The spider-hunting wasp [verbs] [object].A [adjective] spider-hunting wasp [verbs].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in biology/entomology papers to describe parasitic behavior.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used by gardeners or nature enthusiasts.
Technical
Standard term in entomology for wasps in the family Pompilidae.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spider-hunting wasp”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “spider-hunting wasp”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spider-hunting wasp”
- Spelling as 'spider huntingwasp' (no spaces/hyphens).
- Confusing with other hunting wasps (e.g., those that hunt caterpillars).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They can sting if provoked, but they are not aggressive towards humans and primarily focus on hunting spiders.
They are found worldwide, particularly in sandy or dry areas where they can dig nests.
No, only wasps in specific families (like Pompilidae) are specialized spider hunters.
It uses a precise sting to inject venom that paralyzes the spider without killing it, keeping it fresh for the wasp's larvae.
A wasp that hunts spiders to provision its nest.
Spider-hunting wasp is usually technical/scientific in register.
Spider-hunting wasp: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪ.də ˌhʌn.tɪŋ ˈwɒsp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspaɪ.dɚ ˌhʌn.tɪŋ ˈwɑːsp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As single-minded as a spider-hunting wasp.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SPider-hunting wASP: the 'SP' hunts, the 'ASP' stings.
Conceptual Metaphor
NATURE'S PARALYTIC SURGEON (precise, disabling predator).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a spider-hunting wasp hunting spiders?