face powder

American  

noun

1. a cosmetic powder used to give a mat finish to the face.

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face powder British  

noun

1. a flesh-tinted cosmetic powder worn to make the face look less shiny, softer, etc

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Etymology

Origin of face powder

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Gazala observes that her benefactor’s “eyes are slanted under the folds of her brows, kohl-rimmed cat’s eyes in a dead-white face, powder in every fold and crack.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 20, 2025

And before the Armani woman walks out into the street, one last touch of face powder …

From Seattle Times • Feb. 26, 2023

The best way to cover these pockmarks and other cosmetic imperfections was lead face powder, and both men and women took advantage of it.

From Salon • Jul. 26, 2021

She dipped a hand into a purse to fish out a compact face powder with a mirror.

From Reuters • Dec. 20, 2018

"Now look what you've done! That's my best Elizabeth Arden face powder!"

From "Matilda" by Roald Dahl