Tālc, n.

n. [Fr. talc, Sp. & It. talco, Ger. talk, talk-stein, L. Lat. talсus, from Ar. talk.] (Min.) A soft magnesian mineral, of a soapy feel, and usually of greenish, whitish, or grayish colors, occurring in foliated or easily cleavable masses, and also in compact granular masses. In the latter condition it is called steatite or soap-stone. [Also talck, talk.]

Indurated talc, an impure, slaty talc, with a nearly compact texture, and superior hardness to common talc; — called also talc-slate. Dana.