baby powder
Definition
Noun: A fine, absorbent powder, typically made from talc or cornstarch, applied to a baby's skin to prevent irritation and chafing, especially in the diaper area.
Usage
"Baby powder" is a non-count noun. It refers to the substance as a whole. You do not say "a baby powder" or "baby powders." * Use it to describe the product itself: a bottle of baby powder. * Use it to describe the action of applying it: to apply baby powder.
Examples
- Noun:
- New parents should always have baby powder on hand.
- She gently applied baby powder after the baby's bath.
- This brand of baby powder is made with natural cornstarch.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative/Informal Use: Sometimes used informally to describe something very soft, fine, or gentle.
- After the blizzard, a layer of baby-powder-fine snow covered the ground.
Variants and Related Words
- Talcum Powder: A specific type of powder made from talc, often used synonymously with "baby powder," though modern baby powders may use cornstarch as an alternative.
- Diaper Rash Cream/Ointment: A related product used to treat or prevent diaper rash, but it is a cream, not a powder.
Synonyms
- Talcum powder (when referring to the talc-based variety)
- Dusting powder (a more general term for body powder)
Related Phrases
- To powder (a baby): The verb phrase describing the action.
- She powdered the baby before putting on a fresh diaper.
Noun
-
powder used to prevent a baby's diaper from chafing
