/ ˈpaʊdə(r); NAmE / noun , verb
■ noun
1.
[ U , C ] a dry mass of very small fine pieces or grains :
chilli powder
lumps of chalk crushed to (a) fine white powder
The snow was like powder.
A wide range of cleaning fluids and powders is available.
The mustard is sold in powder form .
—see also baking powder , curry powder , soap powder , talcum powder , washing powder
2.
[ U ] a very fine, soft, dry substance that you can put on your face to make it look smooth and dry
3.
[ U ] = gunpowder
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IDIOMS
- keep your powder dry
- take a powder
■ verb
[ vn ] to put powder on sth :
She powdered her face and put on her lipstick.
•
IDIOMS
- powder your nose
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French poudre , from Latin pulvis , pulver- dust.