noun

• Any of various tropical (Central and South) American vines of the genus Smilax, such as Smilax aspera, which have fragrant roots.
• The dried roots of these plants, or a flavoring material extracted from these roots.
• A beverage (soft drink) flavored with this root, such as root beer.
• Any of several North American plants, of the genus Aralia, having umbels and small white flowers.