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

Tiny orchids, spectacular proteas, ericas and restios become the focus, while your guide explains the delicate ecological relationships that support the myriad of floral species. — Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Shades of blue, crisp linens, simple glass accents, and fresh white orchids came together to create a tablescape that’s elegant without feeling fussy. — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 16 July 2026

Spider plants, Boston ferns, orchids and areca palms are all non-toxic options. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026

Spider plants, Boston ferns, orchids and areca palms are non-toxic alternatives. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 July 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