laelia

noun

lae·​lia
ˈlēlēə
1
capitalized : a genus of Central and South American orchids having solitary or racemose variously colored flowers with a 3-lobed labellum and pseudobulbs bearing one or two oblong leaves
2
plural -s : any plant of the genus Laelia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, perhaps from Caius Laelius, flourished 2d century b.c. Roman statesman + New Latin -ia

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near laelia

Cite this Entry

“Laelia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laelia. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!