lady's-slipper

American  

[ley-deez-slip-er] / ˈleɪ dizˌslɪp ər /

Or lady-slipper

noun

1. any orchid of the genus Cypripedium, the flowers of which have a protruding petal somewhat resembling a slipper: all species are reduced in numbers, some greatly.

2. any of several other related plants having similar flowers, as of the genera Paphiopedilum and Phragmipedium.

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lady's-slipper British  

noun

1. any of various orchids of the Eurasian genus Cypripedium, esp C. calceolus, having reddish or purple flowers See also moccasin flower cypripedium

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Etymology

Origin of lady's-slipper

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

The English call it lady's-slipper; the Indians know it as the moccasin flower.

From Sketches in Canada, and rambles among the red men by Jameson, Mrs. (Anna)

The spring-beauty, the painted trillium, the fringed polygala, the showy lady's-slipper, are all more striking to look upon, but they do not quite touch the heart; they lack the soul that perfume suggests.

From The Wit of a Duck and Other Papers by Burroughs, John

From a profusion of wild flowers I especially remark the moccasin-flower or stemless lady's-slipper.

From Memories and Anecdotes by Sanborn, Kate

You could have knocked me down with a lady's-slipper.

From Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 12 Little Journeys to the Homes of Great Scientists by Hubbard, Elbert

In shady places the ferns were unfolding in company with Solomon's-seal, wake-robin, the lady's-slipper, and the painted trillium.

From The Side Of The Angels A Novel by King, Basil