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Definition of mormodes
mormodes
/mɔːrˈmoʊdiːz/
mor · mo · des
Plural:mormodes
mormodes Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
13
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A genus of epiphytic orchids native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, commonly known as goblin orchids, characterized by their striking, unusual, and highly asymmetrical flowers that often exhibit the unique ability to change sex.
Example
"The botanical garden recently acquired a rare specimen of mormodes, drawing enthusiasts eager to see its twisted, goblin-like flowers bloom."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for mormodes• Rhymes for mormodes
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'mormō', meaning 'goblin' or 'phantom', combined with the suffix '-ōdēs', meaning 'resembling'. This name was given in reference to the strange, asymmetrical, and somewhat grotesque shape of the flowers.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mormodes. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mormodes