orchid

noun

or·​chid ˈȯr-kəd 

1

: any of a large family (Orchidaceae, the orchid family) of perennial epiphytic or terrestrial monocotyledonous plants that usually have showy 3-petaled flowers with the middle petal enlarged into a lip and differing from the others in shape and color

2

: a light purple

orchidlike

ˈȯr-kəd-ˌlīk 

adjective

Illustration of orchid

• orchid 1

Examples of orchid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Out of hundreds of orchid varieties, only two species—Vanilla planifolia and Vanilla tahitensis—produce the pods that bring the signature warmth to our cookies, ice creams, and cakes. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 22 Dec. 2024

In contrast, a smaller group of children were more like orchids—sensitive and innately reactive to their circumstances. —Lauryn Higgins, Parents, 16 Dec. 2024

Cortina’s pajamas are made from Italian organic cotton with turn-back cuffs, and have been dyed and piped to his specifications in a rainbow of colors including blue, mint and orchid pink. —Samantha Conti, WWD, 5 Dec. 2024

Among them, the white orchid, which takes center stage in this sophisticated mix that also has notes of rum, jasmine, patchouli and vanilla absolute. —Jackie Fields, People.com, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin orchid-, the base of the taxa names Orchideae and Orchidaceae — more at orchidaceous

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing orchid

• vanda orchid

Kids Definition

orchid

noun

or·​chid ˈȯr-kəd 

1

: any plant or flower of a large family of plants that have usually showy flowers with three petals of which the middle petal is enlarged and differs from the others in shape and color

2

: a light purple