Queen

Pronunciation: /kween/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Queen

Plural: Queens

Definition

The reproductive female in a colony of eusocial insects, such as ants, bees, and termites, responsible for laying eggs and maintaining the colony's population.

Etymology

Derived from Old English 'cwen,' meaning 'woman, wife, or queen,' with similar roots in Old Norse and Germanic languages.

Example

The queen bee plays a crucial role in the hive, laying thousands of eggs and releasing pheromones that regulate the colony's activities.

Synonyms

Reproductive female
Mother

Related Terms

Worker
Drone
Colony
Hive

Usage Notes

In eusocial colonies, the queen's primary function is reproduction; she is often larger than other members and may live significantly longer.