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

Even her handmade orchid bag charm has piercings that feel true to the time. — Marci Robin, Allure, 23 Sep. 2026

Learn how and when to expect orchids to bloomplus tips for healthier flowers. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2026

In the humid environment orchids prefer, a layer of coffee grounds can become a fuzzy, gray carpet in a matter of days, which can spread to the plant’s crown. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Sep. 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