orchid
UK: ˈɔːkɪd | US: ˈɔːrkɪd
n. a plant with complex, often showy flowers belonging to the Orchidaceae family
n. a pale purple color resembling some orchid flowers
The word "orchid" derives from the Greek orkhis (ὄρχις), meaning "testicle," due to the shape of the plant's tuberous roots. The suffix "-id" was added in New Latin (Orchidaceae) to form the botanical term. While the original Greek reference was anatomical, the modern meaning shifted entirely to the floral context, retaining only the root's visual analogy.
The greenhouse specializes in rare tropical orchids.
She wore a silk dress in a delicate shade of orchid.
Orchids are highly prized for their intricate blooms.
The botanist discovered a new orchid species in the rainforest.
His painting featured an orchid as a symbol of elegance.