powder

²powder

noun, often attributive

Definition of POWDER

1

: matter in a finely divided state : particulate matter

2

a : a preparation in the form of fine particles especially for medicinal or cosmetic use b : fine dry light snow

3

: any of various solid explosives used chiefly in gunnery and blasting

— pow·der·less \-ləs\ adjective

— pow·der·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective

Examples of POWDER

1. The powder is made from the roots of the plant.
2. Mix together the different powders.
3. She crushed the peppercorns into a fine powder.
4. We're running low on baby powder and diapers.
5. We woke this morning to several inches of fresh powder on the ground.

Origin of POWDER

Middle English poudre, from Anglo-French pudre, podre, from Latin pulver-, pulvis dust; probably akin to Sanskrit palāva chaff

First Known Use: 14th century