B1noun2K

Powder

UK /["/ˈpaʊdə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈpaʊdər/"]/

Definition

a dry mass of very small fine pieces or grains

In simple words: A dry, fine substance made by grinding or crushing something.

Examples

chilli/cocoa powder
lumps of chalk crushed to a fine white powder
The snow was like powder.
a wide range of cleaning fluids and powders
The mustard is sold in powder form.
powder skiing *(= on fine dry snow)*
Before the photo dries, the image is dusted with a special powder.
The seeds are ground into a fine powder before use.
I only use lipstick and a little powder.
She quickly dabbed some powder on her cheeks.

Usage notes

Used in contexts involving cooking, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. Avoid using it to refer to liquids or solids that are not finely divided.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'pow' - imagine a superhero blasting out fine powder as they swoosh by.

Collocations

fine
chilli/chili
cocoa
grind something into
dust something with
sprinkle on
snow
in powder form
fine
chilli/chili
cocoa
grind something into
dust something with
sprinkle on
snow
in powder form

Synonyms

dust
flake
grit
meal

Antonyms

liquid
solid

Common mistakes

Confused with 'flour' — flour is a specific type of powder.
Using 'powder' when referring to non-powdered substances.
Saying 'powdered' when referring to the act of applying powder.