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Definition of maxillaria
maxillaria
/ˌmæk.sɪˈlɛər.i.ə/
max · il · lar · i · a
Plural:maxillarias
maxillaria Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
12
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
Any orchid of the genus Maxillaria, comprising numerous epiphytic, lithophytic, or terrestrial orchids native to the tropical and subtropical Americas, characterized by a prominent jaw-like structure formed by the lip and column.
Example
"The conservatory's latest botanical exhibit featured a rare maxillaria, whose rich, maroon blossoms emanated a distinct scent of coconut."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for maxillaria• Rhymes for maxillaria
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the Modern Latin genus name Maxillaria, which comes from the Latin 'maxilla' (jaw) and the suffix '-aria'. It was so named because the angle of the column and lip of the flower resembles the gaping jaws of an insect or animal.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Maxillaria. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/maxillaria