from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Lignum-vitae \Lig"num-vi"tae\ (l[i^]g"n[u^]m v[imac]"t[=e]), n.
[L., wood of life; lignum wood + vita, genitive vit[ae],
life.] (Bot.)
A tree ({Guaiacum officinale}) found in the warm latitudes of
America, from which the {guaiacum} of medicine is procured.
Its wood is very hard and heavy, and is used for various
mechanical purposes, as for the wheels of ships' blocks,
cogs, bearings, and the like. See {Guaiacum}.
[1913 Webster]
Note: In New Zealand the {Metrosideros buxifolia} is called
lignum-vit[ae], and in Australia a species of {Acacia}.
The bastard lignum-vit[ae] is a West Indian tree
({Sarcomphalus laurinus}).
[1913 Webster]