Powder: meaning, definitions and examples

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powder

 

[ ˈpaʊdər ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

in cooking

Fine particles produced by the grinding, crushing, or disintegration of a solid substance. Powder is commonly used in cooking to add flavor, texture, or color to dishes.

Synonyms

crush, dust, pulverize.

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Word Description / Examples
powder

Often used to describe a dry, fine substance made by crushing solid materials. Commonly used in cooking, cosmetics, and medicine.

  • She applied some face powder before going to the party.
  • The recipe calls for a teaspoon of baking powder.
dust

Refers to fine, dry particles that are light enough to be carried by the air. It can also mean a thin layer of fine particles on a surface.

  • She wiped the dust off the old books.
  • The construction site was full of dust.
pulverize

Describes the act of grinding or crushing something into a very fine, almost powder-like consistency, usually with a machine or extreme force.

  • The machine can pulverize rocks into fine sand.
  • Pulverize the beans to make a smooth paste.
crush

Used when an object is broken into smaller pieces under pressure. Often implies a more forceful or violent action compared to other terms in the group.

  • He used a hammer to crush the rock.
  • Crush the garlic before adding it to the dish.

Examples of usage

  • Add a pinch of garlic powder to the sauce for extra flavor.
  • The recipe calls for a teaspoon of baking powder to help the dough rise.
Context #2 | Noun

in cosmetics

A substance consisting of ground, pulverized, or otherwise finely dispersed solid particles used in cosmetics for various purposes such as makeup, skincare, or hair care.

Synonyms

cosmetic powder, face powder, makeup powder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
powder

Same as first entry. In a beauty context, it is often used as a shorthand for cosmetic or face powder.

  • She needed some powder to touch up her makeup
  • He noticed powder residues on the vanity
cosmetic powder

Specifically used in the context of beauty and personal care. It generally refers to powders used to enhance or alter one's appearance. This term encompasses all types of powders used for cosmetic purposes.

  • Beauty brands have launched new lines of natural cosmetic powders
  • She applied cosmetic powder to set her makeup
makeup powder

A broad term for powder used in makeup products, which can include setting powder, foundation powder, or finishing powder. It emphasizes its role in makeup application.

  • Make sure to blend the makeup powder well to avoid a cakey look
  • The brand offers mineral-based makeup powders
face powder

A type of cosmetic powder specifically formulated for use on the face. It is used to set foundation, reduce shine, and provide a smooth finish.

  • She always carries face powder in her purse
  • The makeup artist recommended a translucent face powder for a natural look

Examples of usage

  • She applied a light dusting of face powder to set her foundation.
  • The talcum powder helps to absorb excess oil on the skin.
Context #3 | Verb

firearms

To load or fill a gun or firearm with gunpowder in preparation for shooting.

Synonyms

charge, fill, load.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
powder

This term is often used to describe a fine, dry substance made up of very tiny particles. It can apply to substances like makeup, spices, or chemicals.

  • 'She applied face powder before leaving the house
  • ' 'The chef added some garlic powder to the soup
  • '
load

Describes the process of putting a large amount of something into a space, container, or vehicle. It can also refer to the act of preparing a weapon by putting bullets into it.

  • 'They loaded the truck with boxes
  • ' 'She carefully loaded the gun
  • '
charge

Used to describe the amount of explosive material in ammunition or a specific responsibility or duty given to someone.

  • 'The charge in the cannon was set and ready to fire
  • ' 'She was given the charge of organizing the event
  • '
fill

This term refers to causing something to become full or occupying space. It is often used in everyday situations.

  • 'He filled the cup with water
  • ' 'The room quickly filled with smoke
  • '

Examples of usage

  • He carefully powdered each bullet before loading it into the rifle.
  • The soldiers quickly powdered their muskets for the upcoming battle.

Translations

Translations of the word "powder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 

🇮🇳 पाउडर

🇩🇪 Pulver

🇮🇩 bubuk

🇺🇦 порошок

🇵🇱 proszek

🇯🇵 粉 (こな)

🇫🇷 poudre

🇪🇸 polvo

🇹🇷 toz

🇰🇷 가루 (garu)

🇸🇦 مسحوق

🇨🇿 prášek

🇸🇰 prášok

🇨🇳 粉末 (fěnmò)

🇸🇮 prah

🇮🇸 duft

🇰🇿 ұнтақ

🇬🇪 ფხვნილი (p'khvnili)

🇦🇿 toz

🇲🇽 polvo

Etymology

The word 'powder' originated from Middle English 'poudre', which came from Old French 'poldre', ultimately from Latin 'pulvis, pulveris'. The use of powder has been prevalent throughout history in various fields such as cooking, cosmetics, and firearms, evolving to serve different purposes in modern times.

See also: power.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,310, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.