tonka bean

 
Pronunciation: /ˈtɒŋkə/

noun

  • the black seed of a South American tree, which has a vanilla-like fragrance. The dried beans are cured in rum or other alcohol and then used in perfumery and for scenting and flavouring tobacco, ice cream, and other products.
    • The tree is Dipteryx odorata, family Leguminosae

Origin:

late 18th century: tonka, a local word in Guyana