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

Also, visit the National Orchid Garden to see more than 1,000 species of orchids and 2,000 hybrids on display. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026

Its vibrant orange, orchid-like flowers bloom from summer through fall and are irresistible to hummingbirds. —Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Feb. 2026

Watering plants with an ice cube has become a commonplace care hack, especially among orchid growers and for plants that aren't sensitive to temperature extremes, or that are very hardy—like jade plants or spider plants. —Peg Aloi, The Spruce, 20 Feb. 2026

Glass vases with pink orchids were placed throughout the presentation space, complementing the earthy tones and bright accents in Zimbalist's designs. —Anika Reed, USA Today, 18 Feb. 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