sassafras Definition

1. Any of various deciduous N American trees with oval aromatic leaves and long clusters of greenish-yellow flowers.
2. The aromatic dried bark obtained from the roots of this tree, which also yields a pungent oil (sassafras oil) that is used in tea, medicinal preparations, perfumes, and as a food flavouring.
3. An infusion of the bark.
4. A name extended to various plants with similar properties.