araroba

[ ar-uh-roh-buh ]

noun

1. the wood of a Brazilian, leguminous tree, Andira araroba, from which Goa powder is derived.
2. Pharmacology. Goa powder.

araroba

/ ˌærəˈrəʊbə /

noun

1. a Brazilian leguminous tree, Andira araroba
2. Also calledGoa powder a bitter yellow powder obtained from cavities in the wood of this tree, formerly used in medicine to treat skin ailments See also chrysarobin

Word History and Origins

Origin of araroba¹

< Portuguese < Tupi, perhaps variant of araribá

Word History and Origins

Origin of araroba¹

from Portuguese, probably from Tupi, from arara parrot + yba tree

Example Sentences

The Goa powder or araroba is contained in the trunk, filling crevices in the heartwood.

From Project Gutenberg