Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet: An In-Depth Look at the Idiom and Its Usage

Introduction

Have you ever heard someone say they Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet? This quirky phrase, often used to describe someone who is obsessed with an idea or keeps talking about something, has a rich history and continues to buzz in modern English. Whether it’s used in casual conversation, literature, or even crossword puzzles, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” captures the essence of fixation in a vivid and memorable way. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and usage of this idiom, with a special focus on its connection to the New York Times (NYT). From its appearance in the NYT crossword puzzle to its role in a 2000 NYT article, we’ll uncover how this phrase has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a crossword aficionado, or simply curious about idiomatic expressions, this in-depth guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of “have a bee in one’s bonnet.”

What Does “Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet” Mean?

At its core, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” means to be preoccupied or obsessed with a particular idea or issue. It’s often used to describe someone who is fixated on a topic and can’t stop thinking or talking about it. The phrase paints a vivid picture: imagine having a bee trapped inside your hat (or bonnet), buzzing around and demanding your attention. Similarly, when someone has a bee in their bonnet, they are consumed by a thought or concern that they can’t ignore. For example, you might say, “Ever since she read that article, she’s had a bee in her bonnet about climate change and talks about it non-stop.” Alternatively, “He’s got a bee in his bonnet about the new office policy and keeps bringing it up in every meeting.” This idiom is particularly useful for describing someone who is passionately advocating for a cause or is fixated on a problem, often to the point of being perceived as nagging or overly persistent.

Origin of the Idiom

The phrase “have a bee in one’s bonnet” has its roots in the 16th century, evolving from the earlier expression “to have bees in one’s head,” which conveyed a similar meaning of being preoccupied or mad. The first recorded use of “bee in his bonnet” in print dates back to 1790, in the Reverend Philip Doddridge’s Letters: “I suppose you have heard of Mr. Coward’s pranks.He has, as the Scotch call it, a Bee in his Bonnet” (Phrases.org.uk). The term “bonnet” refers to a type of hat, and the idea of having a bee inside one’s hat would certainly be distracting and all-consuming, much like having an obsessive thought. There’s also a possible connection to beekeeping, where beekeepers wear protective headgear, and a bee inside such gear would indeed be a significant distraction. Interestingly, the phrase may have Scottish origins, as bonnets were more commonly worn in Scotland than in England by the time the phrase emerged. This Scottish connection is supported by the fact that the first recorded use attributes the phrase to the Scots.

Usage in Modern English

Today, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” is still used in both British and American English, though it might be considered somewhat old-fashioned or literary. It’s often employed in writing to add color and vividness to descriptions of someone’s fixation on an idea. For instance, in journalism, literature, or even casual conversation, this idiom can bring a touch of whimsy and clarity to the description of obsessive behavior. For example, in a review of a novel, you might read, “The protagonist has a bee in his bonnet about social justice, which drives the plot forward but also blinds him to other issues.” Similarly, in a news article, you might see, “Environmental activists have a bee in their bonnet about the new drilling project, protesting daily outside the company’s headquarters.” Despite its age, the idiom remains relevant because it captures a universal human experience—the tendency to become fixated on certain ideas or issues. Its continued use in crossword puzzles, such as the New York Times crossword, further underscores its cultural significance.

The New York Times article “Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet”

The New York Times has featured this idiom in various contexts, showcasing its enduring appeal and versatility. Most recently, on March 25, 2025, the phrase appeared in the NYT crossword puzzle as a clue, with the answer being “OBSESS” (NYT Crossword Answers). This usage highlights the idiom’s connection to the idea of obsession, reinforcing its meaning in a clever, puzzle-solving context. Additionally, in February 2000, The New York Times published an article titled “SOAPBOX; Bee in Her Bonnet,” which tells the story of Merrill Silver, who organized a team for Montclair’s first adult spelling bee to raise funds for public school libraries (NYT Article). The title playfully uses the idiom to describe Silver’s enthusiasm and dedication to the cause. The article details her preparation and the personal memories that inspired her participation, illustrating how the idiom can be used to characterize someone’s passionate involvement in a project.

“Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet” in Modern Use

Despite its age, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” remains a vibrant part of the English language, used in various contexts to describe obsession or fixation. For example, in a 2008 article in The Guardian, the phrase is used to describe critics of the BBC: “The BBC is well used to being a punchbag for every crank with a bee in their bonnet or a score to settle but some critics are not so easily dismissed” (The Guardian). In a 2015 NPR piece, it’s used to characterize someone’s intense focus on a particular issue: “Giraffedata has a single bee in his bonnet, the phrase ‘composed of.’ He has written a 6,000-word essay on his Wikipedia user page explaining why he thinks it’s an egregious error” (NPR). These examples show that the idiom is still very much in use, particularly in written English, where it adds color and depth to descriptions of human behavior.

Why the Idiom Endures

Idioms like “have a bee in one’s bonnet” persist because they capture universal human experiences in a memorable and vivid way. The image of a bee buzzing inside a hat is both humorous and relatable, making it easy to remember and use. Moreover, the phrase conveys a complex idea—obsession or fixation—in a concise and evocative manner, which is why it continues to be used in both spoken and written English. In a world where communication is increasingly digital and fast-paced, idioms provide a way to add depth and personality to language. They allow speakers and writers to convey nuanced meanings that might otherwise require more explanation. “Have a bee in one’s bonnet” is particularly effective because it not only describes the state of being obsessed but also suggests the discomfort or annoyance that can come with it, much like the literal experience of having a bee in one’s hat.

How to Use “Have a Bee in One’s Bonnet” Correctly

Using idioms correctly can enhance your communication, but it’s important to understand their nuances to avoid misuse. Here are some tips for using “have a bee in one’s bonnet” effectively:

1. Context is Key: Use this idiom when describing someone who is overly fixated on an idea or issue. It’s often used with a tone of mild amusement or exasperation, so be mindful of the context in which you use it.
2. Audience Awareness: Ensure that your audience is familiar with the idiom or that the meaning is clear from the surrounding text. In formal writing, you might want to explain the idiom briefly if there’s any chance it could be misunderstood.
3. Avoid Overuse: Like all idioms, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” should be used sparingly to maintain its impact. Overusing it can make your writing seem clichéd or outdated.
4. Pair with Examples: When introducing the idiom, especially in writing, it can be helpful to provide an example to illustrate its meaning. For instance: “My neighbor has a bee in his bonnet about noise pollution; he’s constantly complaining to the city council.”
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware that idioms can vary across cultures and languages. While “have a bee in one’s bonnet” is widely understood in English-speaking countries, it might not translate directly or be familiar in other languages.

Related Idioms and Phrases

Bee-related idioms are plentiful in English, reflecting the insect’s industrious nature and its role in pollination and honey production. Here are a few related phrases that share thematic elements with “have a bee in one’s bonnet”:

The Bee’s Knees

This phrase means something or someone is excellent or outstanding. It is frequently used to show appreciation or approval. “That new restaurant is the bee’s knees; you have to try it!” is one example. (Dictionary.com).

Busy as a Bee

This idiom describes someone who is very active or industrious, much like bees are known for their constant work.  For example, “She’s been busy as a bee preparing for the conference” (BBC Learning English). While “have a bee in one’s bonnet” focuses on obsession, these related idioms highlight different aspects of bees’ behavior and characteristics, showing how deeply embedded bees are in our linguistic culture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “have a bee in one’s bonnet” is a fascinating idiom that captures the essence of obsession and fixation. Its origins date back centuries, and its usage continues in modern English, as evidenced by its appearances in The New York Times crossword and articles. By understanding this phrase, we gain insight into how language evolves and how idioms can vividly express complex human experiences. Whether you’re solving crosswords, reading the NYT, or simply enjoying the richness of the English language, keep an eye out for this buzzing phrase—it might just stick in your bonnet!

Call to Action

If you enjoyed learning about “have a bee in one’s bonnet,” why not explore more idioms and phrases? Subscribe to The New York Times for daily crosswords and engaging articles that might just give you a new bee to buzz about (NYT Subscription). And remember, the next time you’re fixated on an idea, you can say you’ve got a bee in your bonnet!

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Discover the meaning, origin, and usage of the idiom “have a bee in one’s bonnet,” including its appearances in The New York Times crossword and articles. Learn how this phrase captures obsession and fixation in a vivid way.

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