Definition

1. Noun:

   • A fine-grained, very soft mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate. It has a soapy or greasy feel and is the softest mineral on the Mohs hardness scale. It is commonly used in powdered form in various consumer and industrial products.

2. Verb:

   • To apply talcum powder (a product made from talc) to a surface, typically one's body.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The sculptor chose a block of talc for the carving because of its softness.
  • Talc is the primary ingredient in many brands of baby powder.
• Verb:
  • After her shower, she would talc her skin to keep it dry.
  • The boxer talced his hands before putting on his gloves.

Advanced Usage

• "French chalk": Another name for a fine, white grade of talc used for marking fabric or as a dry lubricant.
  • The tailor used French chalk to mark the alterations on the suit.
• In geology, talc is often found in metamorphic rocks formed from magnesium-rich minerals.

Variants and Related Words

• Talcum powder (n): A cosmetic powder made from purified, finely ground talc, often perfumed, used to absorb moisture.
  • She dusted the baby with talcum powder.
• Talcose (adj): Containing or resembling talc.
  • The rock had a talcose texture.

Synonyms

• Soapstone (n): A metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc, which is often used for carvings.
• Steatite (n): A more compact, massive form of talc or soapstone.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

(This word does not commonly form phrasal verbs.)

Related Idioms

(There are no common idioms directly featuring the word "talc".)

Noun

1. a fine grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate; used in a variety of products including talcum powder

Verb

1. apply talcum powder to (one's body)