n.
     - fine, dry particles produced by the grinding, crushing, or disintegration of a solid substance.
 - a cosmetic in this form applied to a person's face.
 - dated a medicine in this form.
 - loose, dry newly fallen snow.
 - gunpowder.
 
v.
  - apply powder to; sprinkle or cover with powder.
 - 
[usu. as adj. powdered]
 reduce to a powder.
 
 
  Phrase
  
    - keep one's powder dry
 remain cautious and alert.  - take a powder
 N. Amer. informal depart quickly. 
   
  Derivative
  
  Etymology
  ME: from OFr. poudre, from L. pulvis, pulver- ‘dust’.