balata

noun

ba·​la·​ta bə-ˈlä-tə How to pronounce balata (audio)
: the dried latex of a tropical American tree (genus Manilkara and especially M. bidentata) of the sapodilla family that is similar to gutta-percha and is used especially in belting and golf balls
also : a tree yielding it

Examples of balata in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The legendary Hogan, who died nearly 20 years ago, won four U.S. Opens and two Masters tournaments using a wood driver and balata balls. Charley Walters, Twin Cities, 3 June 2017

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Carib

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of balata was in 1860

Dictionary Entries Near balata

Cite this Entry

“Balata.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balata. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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