talcum
pronunciation
How to pronounce talcum in British English:
UK ['tælkəm]
How to pronounce talcum in American English:
US ['tælkəm]
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- Noun:
- a fine grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate; used in a variety of products including talcum powder
- a toilet powder made of purified talc and usually scented; absorbs excess moisture
Word Origin
- talcum (n.)
- 1550s, from Medieval Latin talcum, used for any of various shiny minerals. See talc. Talcum powder attested from 1871.