Pronunciation: [ɹɪkwˈiːn] (IPA) 
The word "requeen" is spelled with the prefix "re-" and the base word "queen." The prefix "re-" indicates repetition or return to a previous state. The base word "queen" is spelled with the "qu" digraph, which represents the /kw/ sound. The final "en" suffix indicates a present tense verb form. Therefore, "requeen" means to make someone queen again or to replace a previous queen. The phonetic transcription for "requeen" is /riːkwiːn/.
Requeen is a verb that refers to the process of replacing a queen bee in a beehive with a new one. It involves removing the existing queen bee, whether due to old age or underperforming, and introducing a young and vigorous queen bee to ensure the colony's productivity and well-being.
During the process of requeening, beekeepers pay careful attention to the health and temperament of the replacement queen. They usually select queens from reputable breeders who produce bees with desirable traits like disease resistance, honey production, and gentle behavior.
The requeening process typically involves locating the existing queen bee and removing her from the hive. This can be done through various methods, such as physically finding and removing her, or using techniques to encourage the bees in the colony to raise a new queen themselves.
Once the old queen has been removed, the new queen is introduced to the hive. This can be done by placing her in a special cage that allows the workers to become familiar with her scent and gradually accept her presence. After a period of acclimation, the queen is released into the hive, where she begins her role of laying eggs and leading the colony.
Requeening is an essential practice in beekeeping as it helps maintain strong and productive colonies. It ensures the efficient generation of worker bees, leading to improved honey production, pollination, and overall hive health.
The word "requeen" is a combination of the prefix "re-" and the noun "queen".
The prefix "re-" is derived from Latin and means "again" or "back". It is often used to indicate repetition or restoration.
The noun "queen" traces its origins back to Old English "cwen", which meant "woman, wife, or queen". It is ultimately derived from the Germanic word "kwoeniz".
When combined, the prefix "re-" and the noun "queen" form the verb "requeen", which means to replace a queen in a beehive or to introduce a new queen bee to a colony of bees.
