n :  any of numerous social or solitary winged insects (esp. families Sphecidae and Vespidae) of the order Hymenoptera that usu. have a slender smooth body with the abdomen attached by a narrow stalk, well-developed wings, biting mouthparts, and in the females and workers an often formidable sting, and that are largely carnivorous .
 
   
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.