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Definition of paphiopedilum

paphiopedilum

/ˌpæfi.oʊˈpɛdɪləm/
pa · phi · o · pe · di · lum
Plural:paphiopedilums
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paphiopedilum Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A terrestrial orchid of the genus Paphiopedilum, native to Southeast Asia, southern China, and the Indian Subcontinent, renowned for its distinctive, pouch-like lower petal that resembles a slipper.

Example

"The botanical garden's latest exhibition features a stunning paphiopedilum with mottled leaves and a deep burgundy pouch."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for paphiopedilum

• Nearby Words

paperwork
paperworker
papery
paphiopedilum
papillon
pappy
paprika

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from New Latin, combining the Greek 'Paphos' (a city in Cyprus sacred to Aphrodite, the Roman Venus) and 'pedilon' (slipper), referencing the orchid's distinctive pouch-like lip.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Paphiopedilum. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/paphiopedilum
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