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 combination of vanilla, tonka bean, and a hint of musk reduces the hyper-sweetness and, instead, allows the fragrance to feel more approachable and balanced. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024

Non-toxic notes of neroli, palo santo, cedarwood, tonka bean, frankincense and elemi should transport your gift recipient to serene landscapes and ancient forests. —Dahvi Shira, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

Notes of tonka bean and cedarwood intensify the warmth of this perfume’s vanilla base for a scent that’s more sultry than sweet. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 25 Nov. 2024

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

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