Definition – Vanilla

 
Sometimes I use the term  “vanilla“.   I thought that providing a definition would be a good idea, just so you’re all clear on how I’m using it.
 

• va•nil•la | vəˈnɪlə |
  adjective, noun (pl. -s)
   
  A descriptive term referring to what are generally considered the normal, usual, commonplace or mainstream qualities of objects, people or practices, for the purpose of distinguishing them from those which are considered more alternative, exceptional, special or different.
  
  He decided to buy the souped-up computer instead of the vanilla one.
   
   
  Etymology
  From the mid 17th century Spanish  vainilla  meaning  little pod,  diminutive of the Spanish  vain(a)  derived from the Latin  vagina  meaning  sheath  +  -illa  the diminutive suffix.

 
Etymology  and  IPA  usefully augmented
with kind assistance from Wiktionary.

 

Vodka flavoured and coloured with a vanilla pod.