catflap.org Online Dictionary Query

  Vanilla \Va*nil"la\, n. [NL., fr. Sp. vainilla, dim. of Sp.
     vaina a sheath, a pod, L. vagina; because its grains, or
     seeds, are contained in little pods.]
     1. (Bot.) A genus of climbing orchidaceous plants, natives of
        tropical America.
  
     2. The long podlike capsules of Vanilla planifolia, and V.
        claviculata, remarkable for their delicate and agreeable
        odor, for the volatile, odoriferous oil extracted from
        them; also, the flavoring extract made from the capsules,
        extensively used in confectionery, perfumery, etc.
  
     Note: As a medicine, vanilla is supposed to possess powers
           analogous to valerian, while, at the same time, it is
           far more grateful.
  
     Cuban vanilla, a sweet-scented West Indian composite shrub
        ({Eupatorium Dalea).
  
     Vanilla bean, the long capsule of the vanilla plant.
  
     Vanilla grass. Same as Holy grass, under Holy.