orchid

noun

or·​chid ˈȯr-kəd How to pronounce orchid (audio)
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 adjective

Illustration of orchid

Illustration of orchid
  • orchid 1

Examples of orchid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Planted orchid arrangements, from Orchids by Hausermann in Illinois, will adorn the tables. Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 14 Feb. 2026 Make sure the orchid gets bright, indirect light for six to eight hours indoors, and use a grow light if needed. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 13 Feb. 2026 John has started sending her white orchids instead of red roses because that’s the only kind Calvin allows in the office. Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 13 Feb. 2026 Watch for special events tied to the exhibit, including a silent disco on Feb. 21 and March 21; orchid sales on March 14, 15 and 26; and special hours for photographers on Tuesdays. Jennifer Day, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for orchid

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of orchid was in 1845

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Orchid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orchid. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

orchid

noun
or·​chid ˈȯr-kəd How to pronounce orchid (audio)
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

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