powder-puff

1 of 2

adjective

pow·​der-puff ˈpau̇-dər-ˌpəf How to pronounce powder-puff (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a traditionally male activity or event done or played by women
a powder-puff football game

powder puff

2 of 2

noun

: a small fluffy device (such as a pad) for applying cosmetic powder

Examples of powder-puff in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Even colors like the powder-puff cymbals and sultry sax lines shed some of their usual smokey saturation, traded for advanced precision. Ryan Waniata, WIRED, 13 May 2024
Noun
Best For: With your favorite powder puff or makeup sponge, apply to set your concealer and brighten the appearance of under eyes, and keep your T-zone free from any unwanted shine. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 24 Feb. 2025 Those all belong to Lulu, a white powder puff of a Pomeranian who is nowhere to be found today. Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for powder-puff

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1929, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of powder-puff was in 1697

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Cite this Entry

“Powder-puff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powder-puff. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

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