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Glite Dictionary
Vespula vulgaris

Vespula vulgaris

8.2
A common wasp with yellow and black stripes that lives in large groups
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Vespula vulgaris
  • Vespula vulgaris is easily recognized by its distinct yellow and black stripes.

Examples

  • The nest in our attic turned out to belong to Vespula vulgaris.

  • Researchers observed the behavior of Vespula vulgaris colonies during late summer.

  • Vespula vulgaris is often mistaken for other yellow jacket species due to its similar appearance.

  • The Vespula vulgaris is often mistaken for other wasp species.

  • Many people are allergic to the sting of Vespula vulgaris.

  • Many beekeepers are concerned about the presence of Vespula vulgaris near their hives.

  • When disturbed, Vespula vulgaris can become aggressive and defend their nest.

Synonyms

common wasp
vsVespula vulgaris
  • UK
2.4

A small flying insect with black and yellow stripes that makes nests near houses and can sting

is the formal scientific name used in biology

Surface Forms

Vespula vulgaris singular
Vespula vulgarises plural

Morphology

Vespula + vulgaris

This is a Linnaean binomial composed of the genus name Vespula and the Latin epithet vulgaris, which means 'common' or 'widespread'; a learner who knows both constituents can infer it refers to a common species of Vespula (wasp). Scientific naming is compositional and follows a cross-linguistic convention, so the overall meaning is directly derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Vespula vulgaris is a Latin name: vespula means 'little wasp' and vulgaris means 'common'. So the name simply says this is the 'common' little wasp, which is why it refers to the usual yellow-and-black wasp people see.