Hive1, n.
n. [A-S. hyfe, hive, hīw, family, Goth. heiva, family, house, O. H. Ger. hiwa, family, marriage, hīwo, hīwa, brides, hīwan, hījan, hīen, hian, to marry, hī-rāt, marriage, N. H. Ger. heirath, marriage, A-S. hīrēd, meeting, family.]
Sense 1. A box, chest, or basket for the reception and habitation of a swarm of honey-bees.
Sense 2. The bees inhabiting a single hive; a swarm of bees. Shak.
Sense 3. A place or scene swarming with busy occupants; a company; a crowd.