■ noun
1》 fine, dry particles produced by the grinding, crushing, or disintegration of a solid substance.
2》 a cosmetic in this form applied to a person's face.
3》 dated a medicine in this form.
4》 loose, dry newly fallen snow.
5》 gun~.
■ verb
1》 apply ~ to; sprinkle or cover with ~.
2》 [usu. as adjective ~ed ] reduce to a ~.
Phrases
keep one's ~ dry remain cautious and alert.
take a ~ N. Amer. informal depart quickly.
Derivatives
~y adjective
Origin
ME: from OFr. poudre , from L. pulvis , pulver- 'dust'.