humble-bee

noun

hum·​ble-bee ˈhəm-bəl-ˌbē How to pronounce humble-bee (audio)
: bumblebee

Word History

Etymology

Middle English humbylbee, from humbyl- (akin to Middle Dutch hommel bumblebee) + bee — more at hum

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of humble-bee was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near humble-bee

humble

humble-bee

humblebrag

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Humble-bee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humble-bee. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about humble-bee

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