mask

mask · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A covering worn on the face to conceal one's identity or for protection.

  2. 2.

    A protective covering for the face used in sports or work.

  3. 3.

    A cosmetic preparation applied to the face for cleansing or treatment.

  4. 4.

    (Figurative) Something that conceals the true nature of something.

  5. 5.

    (verb) To cover, conceal, or disguise.

Forms

plural: masks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    death mask — A cast of a person's face made after death
  • •
    face mask — A covering for the face, especially for health protection
  • •
    gas mask — A protective mask against poisonous gases
  • •
    throw off the mask — To reveal one's true character

Related words

Antonyms: exposure, revelation
See also: cover, disguise, masked, masks
Synonyms: cover, disguise, facade

Etymology

From French masque, from Italian maschera, possibly from Medieval Latin masca ("specter, nightmare") or Arabic maskharah ("buffoon").