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

Begin every-other-week feedings of orchids by month’s end or apply a slow-release fertilizer. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026

The University of Florida’s IFAS Extension posted tips on Thursday for protecting sensitive tropical plants like orchids or tender vegetable crops. —Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2026

Step into a Victorian greenhouse where orchids bloom and pitcher plants bite. —Lewis Nunn, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

Walk in forests where dragonflies buzz and orchids bloom in secret copses. —Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 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