Hôr'net, n.

n. [A-S. hyrnet, hirnet, from hyrne, horn, horn; so called from its antennæ or horns, whence in O. Sax. hornbero, i. e., horn-bearer; N. H. Ger. hornisz, M. H. Ger. hornûz, O. H. Ger. hornaz, horniz, hornuz, Prov. Ger. hornissel, D. horzel.] (Entom.) A large, strong wasp (Vespa crabro), of a dark brown and yellow color. It is very pugnacious, feeds upon insects, as well as the juices of fruits and flowers, and its sting is very severe. Its nest is constructed of a woody fiber, of the color of a dead leaf, and the layers of comb are hung together by columns. Westwood.