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’.