Street
take a powder
What does take a powder mean?
To take a powder is to depart hastily, especially to escape trouble or the police.
"When the sirens started he took a powder out the back door."
Origin
American slang, early 20th century.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'take a powder' mean?
To take a powder is to leave suddenly or flee, especially to escape trouble or the police.
Where does 'take a powder' come from?
It is early 20th-century American slang for making a hasty exit.
Is 'take a powder' still used?
It is dated and now mostly appears in period or noir-style contexts rather than current everyday speech.
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