Powdery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ๏ธ
powdery
[หpaสdษri ]
Definitions
describing texture
Consisting of or resembling powder; covered with or as if with powder.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| powdery |
This word is repeated, so see the first definition.
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| dusty |
Used when describing something covered in or resembling dust. Often conveys a sense of neglect or age.
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| floury |
Used to describe something that has a texture or appearance similar to flour. Often used in the context of baking or cooking.
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| pulverulent |
Used in scientific or technical contexts to describe something that is reduced to fine particles or dust. Less commonly used in everyday speech.
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Examples of usage
- The leaves were covered in a powdery substance.
- The cake had a powdery texture to it.
describing appearance
Having a pale, soft, or dusty color; lacking vibrancy or intensity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| powdery |
Used to describe something that resembles or has the texture of powder. Often applied to substances like makeup, snow, or dust.
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| pale |
Describes a light or washed-out color, often used to refer to skin that is unusually light due to illness, shock, or lack of sun exposure. Also used to denote light shades of any color.
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| dull |
Describes something that lacks brightness, sharpness, or excitement. Can refer to colors, sounds, or objects that are not shiny.
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| faded |
Refers to something that has lost its original color or brightness due to exposure to light, time, or wear.
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Examples of usage
- The painting had a powdery color palette.
- Her skin had a powdery complexion.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, powders are often used to create reactions, where surface area plays a critical role.
- Powdery substances can affect the way light interacts, often creating a softer appearance in art and photography.
- Certain powders, like talc, are used in many everyday products for their absorbent qualities.
Nature
- Some plants produce powdery substances, like pollen, which can be essential for reproduction.
- Deserts are often characterized by powdery sand that can be shaped by the wind into beautiful dunes.
- Snow can sometimes be described as powdery, creating excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Art and Culture
- In art, powdery pastels are favored for their soft texture and ability to blend well.
- Certain powders are used in cosmetics to create a smooth finish on the skin.
- The term 'powdery' was used to describe certain styles in painting, where the surface appears soft and diffused.
Health and Safety
- Many medical substances are in powder form for easier consumption, like powdered medication.
- Powdery substances can pose inhalation risks; hence, proper handling and protective gear are essential.
- In food safety, powdery products must be stored correctly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
Origin of 'powdery'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'powder' comes from the Latin 'pulvis,' which means 'dust' or 'powder.'
- It began in the 14th century, initially describing ground substances used in various industries.
- The addition of 'y' made it an adjective to describe textures similar to fine particles.
The word 'powdery' originated from the Middle English word 'poudree', which meant covered with fine powder. The term evolved to 'powder' in the 15th century, and 'powdery' emerged in the 19th century to describe a texture or appearance resembling or covered with powder.