orchis

orchis Definition

or·chis (ôr′kis)

noun

an orchid; specif., any of a genus (Orchis) with small purplish or white flowers growing in spikes

Etymology: ModL < L, orchid < Gr, orchid, lit., testicle (< IE base *orĝhi- > Lith aržùs, lustful): from the shape of the roots

orchis Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

italica: Orchis italica is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean countries on all four shores of the sea.

Browse dictionary entries near orchis