orchid

From New Latin Orchideae, Orchidaceae, an irregular formation from Latin orchis, from Ancient Greek ὄρχις (órkhis, “orchid, testicle”) (ostensibly from the shape of the roots^[1]). Supplanted Middle English ballokwort (literally “testicle plant”).

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈɔː.kɪd/

• Audio (Southern England):

  (file)

• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈɔɹ.kɪd/
• Rhymes: -ɔː(ɹ)kɪd

orchid (plural orchids)

2. A plant of the orchid family (Orchidaceae), bearing unusually-shaped flowers of beautiful colours. [mid-19th c.]
3. A light bluish-red, violet-red or purple colour.

   orchid:  

• orchidea

orchid (not comparable)

1. Having a light purple colour.

• orchis

• rhodic