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Definition of phalaenopsis

phalaenopsis

/ˌfæl.ɪˈnɑːp.sɪs/
pha · lae · nop · sis
Plural:phalaenopses
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phalaenopsis Lexical Profile

phalaenopsis Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An orchid of a genus native primarily to Southeast Asia and Australasia, characterized by broad, flat leaves and long arching sprays of flat, moth-like flowers; widely cultivated as a popular indoor plant.

Example

"She decorated the center of the dining table with a vibrant pink phalaenopsis in full bloom."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for phalaenopsis

• Rhymes for phalaenopsis

• Nearby Words

peyote
phacelia
phainopepla
phalaenopsis
phalarope
phalocallis
phalsa

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in New Latin in the 19th century, derived from the Greek 'phalaina' (moth) and the suffix '-opsis' (appearance), referring to the floral shape that resembles a moth in flight.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Phalaenopsis. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/phalaenopsis
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