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

Eau Triple Peruvian Heliotrope also uses tonka bean and violet notes for a hedonistic, velvety spritz that remains subtle on the skin and not overbearing. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

After about 10 minutes, base notes of sandalwood, tonka bean, amber, and vanilla, add warmth and depth. —Kayla Greaves, Essence, 23 Nov. 2024

Besides pumpkin, this candle also has nutmeg, cinnamon, and tonka bean (all very classic fall scents). —Moriah Mason, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2024

Rouge Smoking Extrait is a modern amber and fruity fragrance that blends sweet Napoleon cherry with rich vanilla and tonka bean, resulting in a rich, sweet perfume that is not overpowering. —Laia Farran Graves, Forbes, 22 Nov. 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