Sarsaparilla meaning : Any of various tropical (Central and South) American vines of the genus Smilax, such as Smilax regelii, 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.