Beelines

/ˈbiːˌlaɪnz/ noun

Definition

Straight, direct paths or routes (from the behavior of bees flying in straight lines to their hives); also plural of beeline, a type of line or thread.

Etymology

From the observation that bees fly in direct, efficient paths. The phrase 'make a beeline' became common in the 1800s, referring to the bee's direct flight path.

Kelly Says

This phrase is based on real bee behavior—honeybees have incredible navigation and actually do fly in nearly straight lines back to their hive, which is why 'beeline' became a metaphor for the most direct route possible!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.