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Glite Dictionary
swan-neck

swan-neck

9.9
A kind of orchid with long curved flower stems like a swan's neck
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : orquídea cuello de cisne
  • The greenhouse had a beautiful collection of swan-neck orchids in full bloom.

Examples

  • She admired the delicate curves of the swan-neck as it arched gracefully above its leaves.

  • The swan-neck orchid is known for its unique shape.

  • Botanists often refer to the unique floral structure of the swan-neck when describing Cycnoches species.

  • Many gardeners love the beauty of swan-necks in their collections.

  • The greenhouse showcased a stunning display of swan-neck orchids, their elegant shapes captivating all who visited.

  • Horticulturists often highlight the distinct arching columns of flowers in swan-neck orchids for their unique beauty.

  • At the botanical garden, the swan-neck orchids stood out with their slender, graceful forms among other flowers.

Synonyms

swanneck
vsswan-neck
  • Specialized
9.9

An orchid that has a long curved flower stem like a swan's neck

is written with a hyphen between the two parts
swan orchid
vsswan-neck
  • Specialized
9.9

An orchid with long arching flowers that look like a swan's neck

uses the neck image instead of the general plant name
swan-flower
vsswan-neck
  • Specialized
9.9

An orchid with long curved flower stems and swan-like blooms

uses the neck image instead of the flower image
swanflower
vsswan-neck
  • Specialized
9.9

An orchid with long curved flower stems that look like a swan's neck

is written with a hyphen between the two parts

Surface Forms

swan-neck singular
swan-necks plural

Morphology

swan-neck = swan + neck (transparent) = swan + neck

A straightforward descriptive compound: the orchid's flowers arch like a swan's neck, so learners can infer the meaning from the components.

Etymology

Swan-neck combines swan meaning 'a large bird' and neck meaning 'the part that connects head and body'. Botanists call some orchids swan-neck because their flower stems curve in a long, graceful way like a swan's neck, so the name helps you picture the plant's shape.