talc

noun

1
: a very soft mineral that is a basic silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder
2
talcose adjective

Examples of talc 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.
The polypropylene that frames the rear load areas on cars has a high talc content, which is why claw scratches leave an indelible white mark. Jason Barlow, WIRED, 2 Nov. 2024 Insurance underwriting profit fell 69%, dented by rising claims, $565 million of losses from Helene, and a bankruptcy court settlement related to defunct talc supplier Whittaker Clark & Daniels. Reuters, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024 Johnson & Johnson this week saw a new development in its ongoing talc lawsuits that could aid resolution efforts. Julie Coleman, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2024 It’s made without aluminum, parabens, phthalates, and talc and glides on smoothly, absorbs quickly, and controls odor, according to shoppers. Taylor Jean Stephan, People.com, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for talc 

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French talk, from Medieval Latin talc, talcum, from Arabic ṭalq

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of talc was in 1610

Dictionary Entries Near talc

Cite this Entry

“Talc.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/talc. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

talc

noun
: a very soft mineral that consists of a silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder

Medical Definition

talc

noun
: a very soft mineral Mg3Si4O10(OH)2 that is a basic silicate of magnesium, has a soapy feel, and is used especially in making talcum powder

More from Merriam-Webster on talc

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