'talc' originates from Arabic, specifically the word 'ṭalq,' where 'ṭalq' meant 'pure, clean.'

'ṭalq' changed from the Arabic word 'ṭalq' and eventually became the modern English word 'talc'.

Initially, it meant 'pure, clean,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a soft mineral used in powder form.'