vanilla

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 ]

☞ 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 ]