cattleya

noun

cat·​tle·​ya ˈkat-lē-ə How to pronounce cattleya (audio)
kat-ˈlā-ə,
-ˈlē-
: any of a genus (Cattleya) of tropical American epiphytic orchids with showy hooded flowers

Examples of cattleya in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another solid beginner’s choice is a corsage orchid (cattleya bicolor). Karen Hugg, Washington Post, 12 Feb. 2024 This three-piece set features a 3.4-ounce version of the best-selling scent itself—which contains notes of cattleya orchid, jasmine, and vanilla—plus a scented body lotion and cream. Tiffany Dodson, Harper's BAZAAR, 11 July 2022

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from William Cattley †1832 English patron of botany

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cattleya was in 1828

Dictionary Entries Near cattleya

Cite this Entry

“Cattleya.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cattleya. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on cattleya

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!