French chalk

American  

noun

1. a talc for marking lines on fabrics.

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French chalk British  

noun

1. a compact variety of talc used to mark cloth or remove grease stains from materials

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Etymology

Origin of French chalk

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

French chalk

The soapstone of Killygordon is used instead of fire-clay, and is also made into French chalk.

From Ireland as It Is And as It Would be Under Home Rule by Buckley, Robert John

Grease Stains on Silk.—For grease stains on silk, rub the silk with French chalk or magnesia, and then hold it to the fire.

From Mother's Remedies Over One Thousand Tried and Tested Remedies from Mothers of the United States and Canada by Ritter, Thomas Jefferson

A little French chalk, rubbed on the sides and runners, makes the running smoother.

From Handwork in Wood by Noyes, William

In these days a tie had to last the week, aided by the application of French chalk to the salient folds and corners.

From Bindle Some Chapters in the Life of Joseph Bindle by Jenkins, Herbert George

Mrs. Parton shook her head; "I'll try French chalk," she said.

From Mr. Pat's Little Girl A Story of the Arden Foresters by Leonard, Mary Finley