powdery

adjective

pow·​dery ˈpau̇-də-rē 

1

a

: resembling or consisting of powder

powdery snow

b

: easily reduced to powder : crumbling

2

: covered with or as if with powder

Synonyms of powdery

• dusty
• fine

Examples of powdery in a Sentence

the beach's powdery white sand

We skied down the powdery slopes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Powdery mildew appears to be a fine white powdery coat on squash leaves, tomato leaves, pumpkin leaves, etc. — Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026

Moroccan orris butter adds a light, powdery quality, while bitter orange tree wood and amber adds a tart kick. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 31 July 2026

Jade Mountain is the choice for lush mountains, waterfalls, hiking and a more adventurous landscape, but couples expecting the powdery white sand of Turks and Caicos need to understand the difference. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

The beach is known for its clean, blue water, powdery white sand, and abundant amenities, especially for families. — Savannah Born, Travel + Leisure, 26 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing powdery

• powdery mildew

Kids Definition

powdery

adjective

pow·​dery ˈpau̇d-ə-rē 

1

a

: resembling or consisting of powder

b

: easily made into a powder : crumbly

2

: covered with or as if with powder : dusty