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

Its blend of bergamot, jasmine, vanilla, and incense wears warm and enveloping without tipping into powdery territory. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 18 Dec. 2025

This warm, cozy fragrance can be worn year-round, but its mix of heady musk, powdery magnolia flowers, and green Bulgarian rose is especially fitting for winter’s comfiest moments. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 14 Dec. 2025

This breathtaking mountain town has long been a favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts, especially in the winter when powdery snow transforms the landscape into a storybook setting. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 14 Dec. 2025

This powdery starch is often used to clean up oil spills and grease stains, absorbing odors in the process. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 11 Dec. 2025

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