or·chid \ˈȯrkə̇d, ˈ(ə)k-\noun (-s) Etymology: New Latin Orchidaceae 1.: a plant of the family Orchidaceae 2.: a variable color averaging a light purple 3.: praise, commendation, compliment — usually used in plural < an unsung editor deserves some of the orchids — S.L.A.Marshall > < extended orchids to industry for its encouragement of such students — Ethyl News > [orchid 1]