orchid

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   any of numerous plants of the orchid family usually having flowers of unusual shapes and beautiful colors

2. 2
   noun

   A plant of the orchid family (Orchidaceae), bearing unusually-shaped flowers of beautiful colours.

3. 3
   noun

   A light bluish-red, violet-red or purple colour.

4. 4
   adj

   Having a light purple colour.

Etymology

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). Supplanted Middle English ballokwort (literally “testicle plant”).