tonka bean

[ tong-kuh ]

noun

1. the fragrant, black almond-shaped seed of a tall tree belonging to the genus Dipteryx (or Coumarouna ), of the legume family, especially D. odorata, of tropical South America, used in perfumes, as a source of coumarin, and as a substitute for vanilla.
2. the tree itself.

tonka bean

/ ˈtɒŋkə /

noun

1. a tall leguminous tree, Coumarouna odorata, of tropical America, having fragrant black almond-shaped seeds
2. the seeds of this tree, used in the manufacture of perfumes, snuff, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonka bean¹

1790–1800; tonka probably < Tupi tõka

Word History and Origins

Origin of tonka bean¹

C18: probably from Tupi tonka

Example Sentences

Part of the Heritage Remixed collection, the new woodsy-fresh Aventus Cologne combines base notes of styrax, birch, musk and tonka bean to bring out your inner emperor.

From Los Angeles Times

Others are not only potentially hazardous to use, but also banned by federal regulation, like tonka beans or calamus, an herb.

From New York Times

The next layer is milk chocolate cremeux infused with tonka beans, topped with crispy coconut sugar.

From Washington Post

Garnish tart with white chocolate chantilly whipped to firm peaks, tonka bean caramel and crumbled graham crackers.

From Seattle Times

It smells like honeyed amber and smoky tonka beans, topped with a squeeze of bergamot oil.

From New York Times