beehive
UK: ˈbiːhaɪv | US: ˈbiːhaɪv
n. a structure in which bees live and store honey
n. a place filled with busy activity (metaphorical usage)
The word "beehive" is a transparent compound of "bee" (Old English bēo, referring to the honey-producing insect) and "hive" (Old English hȳf, meaning a structure for housing bees). The term has retained its literal meaning while also gaining a figurative sense to describe any bustling environment, mirroring the industrious nature of bees.
The beekeeper carefully inspected the beehive for honey production.
The office was a beehive of activity during the project deadline.
She painted a colorful beehive in her garden to attract pollinators.
Ancient Egyptians used clay pots as early beehives.
The classroom turned into a beehive of excitement before the field trip.