talc

noun

ˈtalk 

1

: a very soft mineral that is a basic silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder

2

: talcum powder

talcose

ˈtal-ˌkōs 

adjective

Examples of talc in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The talc was Katharine’s visual tracer. — Natalia Sánchez Loayza, Scientific American, 26 Feb. 2026

Johnson & Johnson said decades of scientific testing have shown that talc is safe. — Michael L. Diamond, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

Jim did say the Meta lawsuits remind him of the talc cases against Johnson & Johnson . — Matthew J. Belvedere, CNBC, 28 Mar. 2026

The formula is talc-free, hypoallergenic, and suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 11 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French talk, from Medieval Latin talc, talcum, from Arabic ṭalq

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

talc

noun

ˈtalk 

: a very soft mineral that consists of a silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder

Medical Definition

talc

noun

ˈtalk 

: a very soft mineral Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂ that is a basic silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder