1. a rubber-like gum obtained from the latex of a tropical South American tree, used especially for making golf ball covers
Usage: technical
2. the tropical tree (Manilkara bidentata) that produces balata gum
Usage: botanical

Examples

• The golf ball was covered with balata for better feel and control.
• Balata was once the preferred material for premium golf ball construction.
• The balata tree grows naturally in the rainforests of South America.
• Workers tapped the balata trees to collect the valuable latex.
• Modern synthetic materials have largely replaced balata in golf ball manufacturing.
• The balata gum hardens when exposed to air and becomes durable.