talcum
/tælk/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A toilet powder made of purified talc and usually scented; absorbs excess moisture: This refers to a cosmetic or hygienic powder, commonly known as talcum powder or baby powder, used to keep skin dry and prevent rashes.
- A fine-grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate; used in a variety of products including talcum powder: This is the mineralogical definition for the soft mineral that is the primary ingredient in talcum powder.
Usage Examples
Noun (Powder):
- She applied talcum to her feet after showering.
- The baby's skin was kept dry with a light dusting of talcum.
Noun (Mineral):
- The geologist identified the soft, white rock as talcum.
- Talcum is mined and then processed for various industrial uses.
Advanced Usage
- "Talcum" as a verb (rare/technical): To apply talcum powder to something.
- The athlete talcumed his hands before gripping the bar. (Note: The more common verb form is "to powder with talcum" or simply "to powder.")
Variants and Related Words
- Talc (n): The more common term for the mineral itself. "Talcum" is often used specifically for the powder product.
- This paint contains talc as a filler.
- Talcum powder (n): The full name for the powdered product.
- She bought a bottle of talcum powder.
Synonyms
- Powder (n): A general term for a dry substance in the form of loose particles.
- Baby powder (n): A common synonym when referring to the scented powder used for infants.
Related Phrases
- To be covered in talcum: To have talcum powder on one's skin or surface.
- The boxer was covered in talcum before the match.
- A cloud of talcum: Refers to the visible dust created when applying the powder.
- A cloud of talcum rose from the baby's changing table.
Noun
- a toilet powder made of purified talc and usually scented; absorbs excess moisture
- a fine grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate; used in a variety of products including talcum powder