carpenter bee

noun

: any of various solitary bees (genera Xylocopa and Ceratina) that nest in wood

Examples of carpenter bee in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The good news is that carpenter bees don’t present a huge risk to your home. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 7 June 2026 The bad news is carpenter bees tend to be defensive near their nests, says Ellis. Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 30 May 2026 Several bees species are found in California, including honey bees, bumblebees, carpenter bees, mining bees and sweat bees. Alexiah Syrai Olsen, Sacbee.com, 27 May 2026 Its cedar frame is naturally resilient to pest infestations, like carpenter bees, ticks, spiders, and termites. Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 25 May 2026 Use insecticides, traps, or essential oils to manage carpenter bees, or call a professional for severe cases. Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 9 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of carpenter bee was in 1838

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Carpenter bee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/carpenter%20bee. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on carpenter bee

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster