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

These generally have a high talc content (talcum powder enhances the mechanical properties of plastics and acts as a reinforcing agent when added to polymers). —Jason Barlow, WIRED, 2 Nov. 2024

Fans flooded the brand’s Instagram with comments begging them to bring back the old formula, talc be damned. —Lindy Segal, Glamour, 7 Mar. 2025

While talc is often used in root touch-ups to soak up excess oil in the hair and texture, the ingredient has the potential to irritate sensitive scalps. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 27 July 2024

The main difference is that talc is now absent in its formula to make ashy finishes a thing of the past for deeper skin tones. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 23 Jan. 2025

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