ˈtalk, ˈtau̇k noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle French talc of Medieval Latin talcum, from Arabic ṭalq
1. : mica of muscovite ; also : a thin sheet of such mineral
2.
a. : a mineral Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2 consisting of a basic magnesium tetrasilicate that is usually whitish, greenish, or grayish with a soapy feel and occurs in foliated, granular, or fibrous masses (hardness 1, specific gravity 2.6-2.9) — compare steatite
b. : talcum powder