GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found one definition

1.       
   Vanilla , n. [NL., fr. Sp. vainilla, dim. of Sp. vaina a sheath, a pod, L. vagina; because its grains, or seeds, are contained in little pods.]
   1913 Webster
   (Bot.) A genus of climbing orchidaceous plants, natives of tropical America.
   1913 Webster
   The long podlike capsules of Vanilla planifolia, and Vanilla claviculata, remarkable for their delicate and agreeable odor, for the volatile, odoriferous oil extracted from them; also, the flavoring extract made from the capsules, extensively used in confectionery, perfumery, etc.
   1913 Webster
   ☞ As a medicine, vanilla is supposed to possess powers analogous to valerian, while, at the same time, it is far more grateful.
   1913 Webster
   Cuban vanilla, a sweet-scented West Indian composite shrub (Eupatorium Dalea). -- Vanilla bean, the long capsule of the vanilla plant. -- Vanilla grass. Same as Holy grass, under Holy.
   1913 Webster