powder puff Meaning
Powder Puff
Definition:
A “powder puff” refers to a soft, fluffy applicator made of fabric or other materials, often used for applying powder cosmetics to the skin, particularly face powder. The term can also refer to a specific style of women’s lacrosse or football, where the games are played in a less competitive, often more recreational manner, typically involving female players.
Usage:
- “She gently dabbed her face with a powder puff to set her makeup.”
- “The school’s annual powder puff football game raises funds for charity.”
Etymology:
The term “powder puff” combines the word “powder,” which comes from the Old French “poudre,” meaning a finely ground substance, and “puff,” which originates from Middle English “puffe,” akin to “puff,” meaning a light burst of air. Together, they convey the idea of a light, soft applicator for powder.
Pronunciation:
/pˈaʊ.dər pʌf/
Synonyms:
- Cosmetic applicator (in the context of makeup)
- Soft puff (generally describing the puffiness, not specific to makeup)
- Fluff (in a more general sense)
Antonyms:
- Brush (as used in makeup applications)
- Sponge (another type of applicator)
- Hard surface (in a broader context of texture)
In summary, “powder puff” can refer both to a makeup tool and a style of recreational sports, illustrating the term’s versatility in different contexts.
- She applied the blush using a soft powder puff for a smooth finish.
- The artist created a whimsical design using a powder puff to blend the colors seamlessly.
- He gifted her a luxurious makeup set that included a powder puff for easy application.
- The powder puff lay forgotten in the corner of the makeup drawer, covered in dust.
- For her theater performance, she used a powder puff to create a flawless complexion under the stage lights.
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