lady's-slipper

or la·dy-slip·per

[ ley-deez-slip-er ]

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.

lady's-slipper

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of lady's-slipper¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

All these features are found in the 50 or more species of wild, native orchids in the UK, from the Lady's-slipper orchid to the Bog orchid.

From BBC

“Only one native site remains but, unlike lady’s-slipper orchid which also grows in a single native site and receives round-the-clock protection when in flower, this poor plant flounders in an unprepossessing roadside drainage ditch beside the A142 near Ely, Cambridgeshire, where it is at risk from discarded debris.”

From The Guardian

Lee compared great blue heron viewing with showy lady’s-slipper viewing along the Wobegon Trail.

From Washington Times

Lee compared great blue heron viewing with showy lady’s-slipper viewing along the Wobegon Trail.

From Washington Times

Certain species of lady’s-slipper orchids, some common and some endangered in Pennsylvania, easily sell for $50 or more, he said.

From Washington Times