Literal Translation
To put the powder in the eyes
Actual Meaning
Smoke and mirrors
Etymology
This expression dates back to the 12th century. Here, powder represents dust. Previously, it meant to prevail over someone, and refers to Olympic runners who kicked up dust, blinding the competitors behind them and allowing the leader to win.
The expression ‘poudre aux yeux’ has evolved over the centuries and today means to dazzle with false appearances. Here, we are referring mainly to the blindness caused by dust in the eyes.