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balata

[ buh-lah-tuh, bal-uh-tuh ]

noun

  1. a nonelastic, rubberlike, water-resistant gum that softens in hot water and is obtained from the latex of a tropical American tree, Manilkara bidentata: used chiefly in the manufacture of machinery belts, golf ball covers, and as a substitute for gutta percha. Compare bully tree.
  2. a tree, Mimusops balata, of Madagascar.


balata

/ ˈbælətə /

noun

  1. a tropical American sapotaceous tree, Manilkara bidentata , yielding a latex-like sap
  2. a rubber-like gum obtained from this sap: used as a substitute for gutta-percha
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of balata1

First recorded in 1855–60; from Latin American Spanish, from Carib; compare Galibi balata
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Word History and Origins

Origin of balata1

from American Spanish, of Carib origin
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Example Sentences

The joins are dried in the sun, after which the tray is made water-tight with a lining of balata.

To the majority of the balata-bleeders, the river steamers are a great boon.

At Balata it is said that the city gate of ancient Shechem was uncovered.

Balata bands may be used in place of india-rubber, but though less expensive are not so lasting.

Timber is cut, and balata and rubber collected, from crown lands by licences issued from the department of Lands and Mines.

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BalashikhaBalaton