Powdery: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is repeated, so see the first definition.

• The powdered sugar made the cake look beautiful

Used when describing something covered in or resembling dust. Often conveys a sense of neglect or age.

• The attic was filled with old, dusty furniture

Used to describe something that has a texture or appearance similar to flour. Often used in the context of baking or cooking.

• The baker's hands were floury after making bread

Used in scientific or technical contexts to describe something that is reduced to fine particles or dust. Less commonly used in everyday speech.

• The mineral sample was pulverulent after being ground in the lab

Used to describe something that resembles or has the texture of powder. Often applied to substances like makeup, snow, or dust.

• The snow was light and powdery, perfect for skiing.
• She applied a powdery blush to her cheeks.

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.

• Her face turned pale when she heard the bad news.
• The walls were painted a pale shade of blue.

Describes something that lacks brightness, sharpness, or excitement. Can refer to colors, sounds, or objects that are not shiny.

• The knife was too dull to cut through the vegetable.
• The lecture was so dull that many students started to fall asleep.

Refers to something that has lost its original color or brightness due to exposure to light, time, or wear.

• The jeans were old and faded from frequent washing.
• The photograph had faded over the years.