1. Plural of guaiacum; tropical American trees of the genus Guaiacum, or the hard, resinous wood from these trees, historically used in medicine and woodworking.
Usage: Often used in historical or botanical contexts; The singular form is guaiacum

Examples

• The shipbuilder selected guaiacums for the ship's frame because of their exceptional hardness.
• Medieval physicians prescribed guaiacums as a treatment for syphilis.
• Several guaiacums grow in the Caribbean islands.
• The dense wood of guaiacums was prized for making pulleys and bearings.
• Guaiacums contain a fragrant resin that was used in varnishes.