dendrobium

[den-droh-bee-uhm]

noun

1. any of numerous epiphytic orchids of the genus Dendrobium, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Eastern Hemisphere, having variously colored, often showy flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of dendrobium¹

< New Latin (1799), equivalent to Greek dendro- dendro- + New Latin -bium < Greek -bion, neuter of -bios -lived, having such a life, living on (adj. derivative of bíos life; bio- )

Example Sentences

She is dropping off two bloomed-out dendrobiums and a cattleya and picking up a perky slipper orchid.

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His dendrobiums, oncidiums, cattleyas and other orchids inhabit the window sills in his bathroom, kitchen and living room.

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In China the dried stems of dendrobium orchids make shi-hu, which is believed to help with fevers, dry mouth, and other ailments.

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The most ubiquitous lei — made of purple dendrobium orchids — is stocked by florists, the Los Angeles Flower Market and even Southland supermarkets.

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And dendrobiums and other orchids fasten on the branches.

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