TAKES A POWDER Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "takes a powder" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 1900s. It is primarily associated with North American English. The term "takes a powder" is used to describe someone abruptly leaving or disappearing from a place, often without providing any explanation or farewell. This informal phrase is comparable to "taking off" or "making oneself scarce".
The origin of this expression is uncertain, but it may have been influenced by the practice of using powders as a form of medicine. Medicinal powders were commonly administered orally, and the phrase "take a powder" may have been a colloquialism to explain that one needs to ingest a medicinal powder, thereby implying a hasty departure. Over time, this term evolved beyond its original meaning and has come to represent someone's swift exit from a location.
The phrase "takes a powder" is not limited to a specific context or situation. It can be used to describe various scenarios where someone leaves suddenly. Examples include abruptly leaving a party, disappearing from a conversation, or even running away from a challenging situation without providing any explanation or saying goodbye. Its figurative nature suggests that the departure is often unexpected, unannounced, or secretive. Overall, "takes a powder" signifies an immediate departure or escape without any trace or prolonged explanation.
Common Misspellings for TAKES A POWDER
