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

Garden Fair: The Sweetwater Oaks Garden Club’s Garden Fair will feature vendors selling plants, shrubs, roses, orchids, birdhouses, decorative garden and yard art. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2025

Some water-soluble fertilizer formulations are specifically made for air plants, otherwise try orchid fertilizer. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 13 Feb. 2025

Notes of amber, musk, cedar, and orchid result in a composition that is somehow warm yet dry—like you’re curled up in front of a fireplace wearing your favorite sweater. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 4 Feb. 2025

Lego Botanicals Mini Orchid Building Set In addition to bouquets, Walmart also has potted plants, like this mini orchid building set that can be assembled and displayed on a desk or table. —Ali Faccenda, People.com, 26 Jan. 2025

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