talc

noun

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
talcose adjective

Examples of talc in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In general, avoid matte or overly powdery formulas, especially those containing talc. Genevieve Cepeda, InStyle, 17 Jan. 2026 Opt for liquid soaps, such as hand washes, body washes, or even Castile soap, which generally lack talc—a primary soap scum contributor. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2026 This talc-free powder delivers a berry-pink flush that mimics the look of real skin warmth. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 26 Dec. 2025 Many cosmetic companies already test their talc-products for asbestos, but testing rigor and quality varies. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 23 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for talc

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of talc was in 1610

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Talc.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/talc. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

talc

noun
: 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
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on talc

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster