Dictionary entry

Tonka bean

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Ton″ka bean′ (?). [Cf. F. onca, tonka.] (Bot.) The seed of a leguminous tree (Dipteryx odorata), native of Guiana. It has a peculiarly agreeable smell, and is employed in the scenting of snuff. Called also tiononquin bean. [Written also tonca bean, tonga bean.]