* Colony - This is the most common and widely accepted term.
* Army - Highlights their organized and aggressive nature.
* Nest - Refers to their dwelling, though not strictly a collective noun for the ants themselves.
* Swarm - Implies a large, moving mass of ants.
* Host - Often used when discussing ants in a scientific or biological context.
You can also use more creative terms, such as anthill, legion, or mob. The choice depends on the context and the effect you want to achieve.