Definition

Noun: - A fine, soft, scented powder made primarily from purified talc, used on the skin to absorb moisture and reduce friction.

Usage

Talcum powder is applied to the body, typically after bathing, to keep skin dry and prevent chafing. - She dusted her baby with talcum powder after his bath. - Many people use talcum powder to feel fresh and dry in hot weather.

Advanced Usage

• "to be powdered with talcum": to have talcum powder applied.
  • The wrestler's shoulders were powdered with talcum before the match.

Variants and Related Words

• Talc (noun): The soft mineral from which talcum powder is made.
  • Talc is the main ingredient in talcum powder.
• Body powder (noun): A general term for powders used on the skin, which may include talcum powder.
  • She prefers a cornstarch-based body powder over traditional talcum powder.

Synonyms

• Dusting powder: A powder for sprinkling on the body.
• Toilet powder: A general term for scented powder used for personal hygiene.

Notes on Meaning

This word refers specifically to the finished, scented consumer product. The base mineral is called "talc." In some contexts, "talcum powder" is used interchangeably with "talc powder," though "talc powder" can also refer to the unscented, industrial-grade powder.

Noun

1. a toilet powder made of purified talc and usually scented; absorbs excess moisture