1 oncidium | Definition of oncidium
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oncidium

noun
on·​cid·​i·​um | \ än-ˈsi-dÄ“-É™m How to pronounce oncidium (audio) , äŋ-ˈki- How to pronounce oncidium (audio) \

Definition of oncidium

: any of a genus (Oncidium) of showy tropical American chiefly epiphytic orchids

Examples of oncidium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 Consider the oncidium, whose delicate sideways sprays of vivid blooms suggest a model mobile by Alexander Calder. — Adrian Higgins, idahostatesman, "Moth orchid’s ascent overshadows alluring varieties | Idaho Statesman," 21 Feb. 2018 This is a variety named Lemon Drop, a type of oncidium orchid. — Adrian Higgins, idahostatesman, "Moth orchid’s ascent overshadows alluring varieties | Idaho Statesman," 21 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'oncidium.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of oncidium

circa 1868, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for oncidium

New Latin, from Greek onkos barbed hook — more at angle

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More from Merriam-Webster on oncidium

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oncidium

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