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

Once a month, skip the fertilizer and water the orchid well to flush out any salt and mineral buildup. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 8 Jan. 2026

To enhance drainage, consider adding orchid bark or perlite to the mix. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026

The nonprofit group, which is celebrating 75 years of bringing together orchid enthusiasts while providing educational opportunities and supporting conservation efforts, will haul in thousands of the delicate flowering plants from growing centers around the world. —Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 7 Jan. 2026

In ideal growing conditions, this vine will eventually produce gorgeous yellow orchid flowers. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 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