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.]
     [1913 Webster]
     1. (Bot.) A genus of climbing orchidaceous plants, natives of
        tropical America.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     2. The long podlike capsules of Vanilla planifolia, and
        Vanilla 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.
        [1913 Webster]
  
     Note: As a medicine, vanilla is supposed to possess powers
           analogous to valerian, while, at the same time, it is
           far more grateful.
           [1913 Webster]
  
     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.
        [1913 Webster]