dusting

American  

[duhs-ting] / ˈdʌs tɪŋ /

noun

1. a light application.

   a dusting of powder.

2. a beating; defeat.

   He gave his opponent a good dusting.

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Etymology

Origin of dusting

First recorded in 1615–25; dust + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Rainfall totals of half an inch to 1.5 inches are expected in the mountain and foothill regions, and there is a chance of a dusting of snow in areas above 6,000 feet elevation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

America’s banks are dusting off their spending wish lists.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Then warmth: a drop of vanilla, a whisper of cinnamon, a dusting of cardamom or ginger.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

Will the vibes dissolve in a larger city just as the only dusting of snow all week vanished when it touched the sidewalk?

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

Juan, Bennie, Tee, and Nydia were rising wearily from their hiding places, dusting themselves off.

From "Shadowshaper" by Daniel José Older