tonka bean

[tong-kuh]

noun

1. the fragrant, black almond-shaped seed of a tall tree belonging to the genus Dipteryx (orCoumarouna ), of the legume family, especially D. odorata, of tropical South America, used in perfumes, as a source of coumarin, and as a substitute for vanilla.

2. the tree itself.

tonka bean

/ ˈtɒŋkə /

noun

1. a tall leguminous tree, Coumarouna odorata, of tropical America, having fragrant black almond-shaped seeds

2. the seeds of this tree, used in the manufacture of perfumes, snuff, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonka bean¹

1790–1800; tonka probably < Tupi tõka

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonka bean¹

C18: probably from Tupi tonka

Example Sentences

The tonka bean’s robust scent comes from the presence of coumarin, a naturally occurring organic compound that’s also found in Cassia cinnamon and some licorice roots.

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Part of the Heritage Remixed collection, the new woodsy-fresh Aventus Cologne combines base notes of styrax, birch, musk and tonka bean to bring out your inner emperor.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Others are not only potentially hazardous to use, but also banned by federal regulation, like tonka beans or calamus, an herb.

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The next layer is milk chocolate cremeux infused with tonka beans, topped with crispy coconut sugar.

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Garnish tart with white chocolate chantilly whipped to firm peaks, tonka bean caramel and crumbled graham crackers.

Read more on Seattle Times