[ OE. brasil, LL. brasile (cf. Pg. & Sp. brasil, Pr. bresil, Pr. bresil); perh. from Sp. or Pg. brasa a live coal (cf. Braze, Brasier); or Ar. vars plant for dyeing red or yellow. This name was given to the wood from its color; and it is said that King Emanuel, of Portugal, gave the name Brazil to the country in South America on account of its producing this wood. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. The wood of the oriental Cæsalpinia Sapan; -- so called before the discovery of America. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A very heavy wood of a reddish color, imported from Brazil and other tropical countries, for cabinet-work, and for dyeing. The best is the heartwood of Caesalpinia echinata, a leguminous tree; but other trees also yield it. An inferior sort comes from Jamaica, the timber of Caesalpinia Braziliensis and Caesalpinia crista. This is often distinguished as Braziletto , but the better kind is also frequently so named. The wood is also used for violin bows. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. a tropical tree (Caesalpinia echinata) with a prickly trunk; its heavy red heartwood (also called brazilwood) yields a red dye and is used for cabinetry.
Syn. -- peachwood, pernambuco wood. [ WordNet 1.5 ]