n.
Function: noun
Usage: often attrib
Etymology: Middle English poudre, from Anglo-French pudre, podre, from Latin pulver-, pulvis dust; probably akin to Sanskrit pal ā va chaff
Date: 14th century
1 : matter in a finely divided state : particulate matter
2 a : a preparation in the form of fine particles especially for medicinal or cosmetic use b : fine dry light snow
3 : any of various solid explosives used chiefly in gunnery and blasting
– pow · der · less \ -l ə s \ adjective
– pow · der · like \ - ˌ l ī k \ adjective