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Bee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bee

[biː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

insect

A bee is a flying insect closely related to wasps and ants, known for their role in pollination and producing honey. Bees are social insects that live in colonies and are famous for their complex communication system and ability to navigate using the sun.

Synonyms

bumblebee, honeybee, pollinator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bee

Group term, often used to describe a gathering or activity focused on a specific task or event (spelling bee, quilting bee).

  • I'm participating in a spelling bee next week
  • Grandma is hosting a quilting bee this afternoon
bumblebee

Specifically refers to the large, fuzzy bees often seen in gardens, known for their gentle nature and role in pollination.

  • A bumblebee was buzzing around the garden
  • Bumblebees are excellent pollinators
honeybee

Refers to bees that produce honey and are often kept in hives by beekeepers. Common in agricultural and ecological discussions.

  • Honeybees are crucial for pollinating crops
  • We're harvesting honey from our honeybees today
pollinator

Used in scientific, environmental, and agricultural contexts to describe organisms, including bees, that help plants reproduce by transferring pollen.

  • Bees are essential pollinators in our ecosystem
  • The garden is full of different pollinators, not just bees

Examples of usage

  • The bee landed on the flower to collect nectar.
  • Without bees, many plants would not be able to reproduce.
  • The bee danced to communicate the location of the nectar source.
  • The buzzing sound of bees filled the garden.
  • Bees are essential for the pollination of crops.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have revered bees, often associating them with hard work, community, and even divinity; in Ancient Egypt, bees were seen as symbols of royalty and power.
  • In folklore, bees are often seen as messengers or bringers of good luck, featuring in various fables and tales around the world.

Science

  • Bees play an essential role in pollination, which helps over 75% of the world's flowering plants reproduce.
  • Honey, produced by bees, has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, showcasing its long-standing value as food and medicine.

Environmental Importance

  • Declining bee populations due to pesticides and habitat loss pose a significant threat to food production and biodiversity.
  • Urban beekeeping is on the rise, with more city dwellers taking up the practice to support local ecosystems and promote awareness of bees' importance.

Literature

  • Bees have inspired numerous literary works, symbolizing both diligence and the connection between nature and humanity.
  • In poetry, bees are often used as metaphors for the intricacies of life and community, illustrating themes of cooperation and the cycles of nature.

Origin of 'bee'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bee' comes from the Old English 'beo', which means 'bee' or 'honey bee'.
  • Related terms across different languages show the long-standing importance of bees, like the Latin 'apis' for bee, which is still used in scientific classification.

The word 'bee' has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'bion'. Bees have been important to human societies for thousands of years, with evidence of beekeeping dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece. The importance of bees in pollination and honey production has led to their symbolic significance in many cultures, representing diligence, community, and harmony with nature.

See also: beef.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,939 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.