Definition

Describing something that is dusty or made up of fine powder, often appearing crumbly.

Example

The pulverulent soil made it difficult for the plants to grow.

Conversation

I noticed that the old book on the shelf is really pulverulent from all the dust.

Yeah, it looks like it hasn't been touched in ages!

I should probably clean it up; it's such a classic.

Definitely! It would be a shame to let it get too pulverulent.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pulverulent is formed from "pulver" (from Latin "pulvis", meaning dust or powder) and the suffix "-ulent" (meaning full of or characterized by). The word describes something that is full of dust or powdery substance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pulvis' meaning dust, and remember that 'pulverulent' refers to something that is full of dust or powder.

Visually Confused Words