Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* The Queen Bee: This refers to the single, dominant female in a beehive. She is responsible for laying eggs, organizing the hive, and controlling the behavior of other bees.
* The Metaphor: When applied to humans, the term "queen bee" suggests a woman who holds a similar position of power and influence within a group, often in a social or professional setting.
* Characteristics: Queen bees are often perceived as being:
* Authoritative: They set the rules and expectations for others.
* Controlling: They may try to exert influence and control over the group's activities and decisions.
* Manipulative: They may use their position to manipulate others for their own benefit.
* Exclusive: They may form a close circle with a select few while excluding others.
* Popular: They are often admired or feared by others in the group.
It's important to note that:
* The term "queen bee" can be negative or neutral, depending on the context. Sometimes it simply describes a woman who is confident and assertive. However, it can also be used as a derogatory term to criticize a woman's behavior as being controlling, manipulative, or exclusionary.
* The term has gendered connotations. It is rarely used to describe a man.
Examples:
* "She's the queen bee of the office, everyone knows she's the boss."
* "The queen bee of the sorority wouldn't let anyone in unless they were popular and rich."
Ultimately, the meaning of "queen bee" depends on the specific context and how it is used.