Powdery/ˈpaʊdəri/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Descriptive Imagery Use 'powdery' to describe a visual texture that appears soft, delicate, and dust-like. Her face was pale with a powdery layer of makeup. Pro Tip 2/3Not for Liquids 'Powdery' should not describe wet or liquid substances; it implies dryness. The old book's pages were powdery, not at all damp. Pro Tip 3/3Sense of Touch It conveys how something might feel to the touch, often leaving a residue. His hands were covered with powdery chalk after rock climbing.