Paper wasp is a common name for a type of wasp belonging to the family Vespidae. The spelling of this word is based on the sounds of the English language. The first syllable "pap-" is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat." The second syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound as in "bee." The final syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound as in "cup." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈpeɪ.pər ˌwɑːsp/.
A paper wasp refers to a type of eusocial hymenopteran insect that belongs to the Vespidae family. These wasps are named after their unique ability to construct their nests using a papery material that is primarily made from chewed wood or plant fibers mixed with their saliva. The nests of paper wasps are often characterized by their distinctive umbrella-like or open honeycomb structure.
Paper wasps are known for their slender and elongated bodies, with a narrow waist that separates the abdomen from the thorax. They have two pairs of membranous wings, which can be folded longitudinally at rest. Their coloration varies by species but typically includes a combination of yellow, brown, or black markings on their bodies.
Paper wasps are predominantly social insects, living in colonies where each individual has a specific role within the hierarchy. These colonies are usually small compared to other social wasps, with only a few dozen up to a few hundred individuals. Unlike some other wasp species, paper wasps are generally non-aggressive and will only sting if they feel threatened or their nest is disturbed.
These wasps exhibit a significant ecological role by preying on various arthropods, especially insects that can be considered garden pests. They are also important pollinators and contribute to flower fertilization. Despite some potential benefits, paper wasps can become nuisances when they build their nests in close proximity to human dwellings. Their stings can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
The word "paper wasp" is composed of two parts: "paper" and "wasp".
The term "wasp" dates back to the 13th century, derived from the Old English word "wæps" meaning "wasp". This Old English term is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "wabis", which also meant "wasp". The exact origins of the Proto-Germanic word are uncertain.
The term "paper" in "paper wasp" refers to the distinctive paper-like nests constructed by these wasps. The nests are made of chewed wood fibers mixed with wasp saliva and have a paper-like texture. "Paper" itself comes from the Middle English word "papir", a borrowing from the Old French word "papier".