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

Feed orchids every other week with a liquid or use a slow-release fertilizer as labeled. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 May 2026

Specialty potting mixes, such as for orchids and cacti, also are sold. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 29 May 2026

For the special day, Lintz wore a Saint Bridal Couture gown while her husband opted for a blue suit with a white orchid boutonniere that matched her bouquet. —Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026

The waterfront hotel started as a home and five bungalows 1907 and grew to 453 rooms—some with excellent views of Diamond Head—and a dazzling pool with a white orchid on the bottom. —Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026

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