tonka bean

noun

ton·​ka bean ˈtäŋ-kə- 

: the coumarin-containing seed of any of several tropical American leguminous trees (genus Dipteryx, especially D. odorata) that is used in perfumes and as an artificial vanilla flavoring

also : a tree bearing tonka beans

Examples of tonka bean in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The bright, energy boost of a perfume balances the notes of bergamot and grapefruit with a woody base of balsam fir and woody spices, plus tonka bean. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

The duo paired tonka bean and sandalwood essence, as well as notes of black coffee. —James Manso, WWD, 3 Sep. 2024

The base notes of tonka bean, musk and heliotrope create a warm and creamy finish that lingers on the skin, leaving a trail of irresistible allure. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 19 July 2024

Combined with cardamom, sandalwood, and vetiver—with hints of tonka bean and amber—a few spritzes of this signature scent is like warming up to a nice cozy fire. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 5 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Dutch tonka(-boon) & Portuguese (fava-)tonca, perhaps of Cariban origin

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

tonka bean

noun

ton·​ka bean ˈtäŋ-kə- 

: the seed of any of several leguminous trees of the genus Dipteryx that contains coumarin and is used in perfumes and as a flavoring

also : a tree bearing tonka beans