guarana

noun

gua·​ra·​na ˌgwä-rə-ˈnä 

: a dried paste that is made from the seeds of a South American climbing shrub (Paullinia cupana) of the soapberry family, that contains caffeine and tannin, and that is used as a stimulant

also : this plant

Examples of guarana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Taurine is a popular ingredient in energy drinks and pre-workout supplements, which often include stimulant ingredients like caffeine and guarana. —Jillian Kubala, Rd, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

Due to the potent caffeine, those who are pregnant should avoid consuming guarana. —Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 1 July 2024

The guarana plant contains four times the amount of caffeine as coffee beans. —Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 1 July 2024

The drink includes multiple sources of caffeine, including coffee and guarana extracts, and a high amount of sugar. —Justine McDaniel, Washington Post, 18 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese guaraná, from Nhengatu (Tupi-based lingua franca of Amazonia), from Sateré-Mawé (Tupian language of the middle Amazon River basin) warana

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

guarana

noun

gua·​ra·​na ˌgwär-ə-ˈnä 

: a dried paste made from the seeds of a Brazilian climbing shrub (Paullinia cupana) containing tannin and caffeine and used in making an astringent drink