Search Dictionary
Definition of bee-eater

bee-eater

Plural:bee-eaters
JUMP TO:

bee-eater Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A brightly colored, slender bird of the family Meropidae, typically found in the Old World and Australasia, characterized by its specialized behavior of catching bees, wasps, and other flying insects on the wing.

Example

"During our ornithological tour in South Africa, we spotted a vibrant flock of European bee-eaters perched on a bare branch."

• Nearby Words

bedpan
bedspread
bee
bee-eater
beech
beef
beef stew

Word Origin & Etymology

A straightforward compound of 'bee' and 'eater', first recorded in English in the mid-17th century, explicitly describing the bird's specialized diet of hymenopteran insects.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bee-eater. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bee-eater
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.