What is "varec"

Varec \Var"ec\, n. [F. varech; of Teutonic origin. See Wrack seaweed, wreck.] The calcined ashes of any coarse seaweed used for the manufacture of soda and iodine; also, the seaweed itself; fucus; wrack.

n. 1 The calcined ashes of any coarse seaweed used for the manufacture of soda and iodine. 2 The seaweed itself; fucus; wrack.