powder-puff

1 of 2

adjective

pow·​der-puff ˈpau̇-dər-ˌpəf How to pronounce powder-puff (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a traditionally male activity or event done or played by women
a powder-puff football game

powder puff

2 of 2

noun

: a small fluffy device (such as a pad) for applying cosmetic powder

Examples of powder-puff in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
In the show’s first season, for instance, drag superstar Trixie Mattel plays a less famous drag queen named Shazam whom Evan brings in to teach the football team about what is and is not appropriate when doing female impersonations for its powder-puff routine. Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 6 Oct. 2025 Even colors like the powder-puff cymbals and sultry sax lines shed some of their usual smokey saturation, traded for advanced precision. Ryan Waniata, WIRED, 13 May 2024
Noun
The size of the powder puff tree can be controlled by continuous trimming, even by moving them to an indoor location to avoid harsh winter climates. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026 Best For: With your favorite powder puff or makeup sponge, apply to set your concealer and brighten the appearance of under eyes, and keep your T-zone free from any unwanted shine. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for powder-puff

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1929, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of powder-puff was in 1697

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Cite this Entry

“Powder-puff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powder-puff. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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