maxillaria

noun

max·​il·​lar·​ia
ˌmaksəˈla(a)rēə
1
capitalized : a large genus of tropical American epiphytic orchids with persistent often leathery leaves and single-flowered scapes that includes several cultivated for their large brilliantly colored flowers
2
plural -s : an orchid of the genus Maxillaria

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin maxilla jaw + New Latin -aria; from the resemblance of part of the flower to a chin

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near maxillaria

Cite this Entry

“Maxillaria.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maxillaria. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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