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

 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]

 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.  [WordNet 1.5]