Brasils

/ˈbræzɪlz/ noun

Definition

Plural of brasil; pieces or samples of brazilwood, or historical references to the wood product itself.

Etymology

English pluralization of 'brasil' (an alternative spelling of brazilwood), from Portuguese 'brasil,' ultimately from a Sanskrit origin related to red dyes.

Kelly Says

Before we called the country 'Brazil,' European traders would refer to shipments of 'brasils'—meaning bundles of this precious dye-wood arriving from the New World, which became so famous it gave its name to the entire territory.

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