A wasp is an insect belonging to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. Wasps are characterized by their slender bodies, narrow waists, and two pairs of wings. They can be found in various habitats around the world and are known for their role in pollination and pest control. Most wasps are social insects, living in colonies that can number in the thousands. They build nests from paper-like material made from chewed wood fibers. While some wasps are beneficial, others can be aggressive and may sting when threatened, making them important to understand in terms of ecosystem balance and human safety.