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.]
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   1. (Bot.) A genus of climbing orchidaceous plants, natives of
      tropical America.
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   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.
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   Note: As a medicine, vanilla is supposed to possess powers
         analogous to valerian, while, at the same time, it is
         far more grateful.
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   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.
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