a covering for all or part of the face that protects, hides, or decorates the person wearing it, something that hides or disguises the true nature of something, a way of behaving that is not sincere or honest

behind the mask, put a new face/mask on something, face/mask the music

put on a brave face/mask, take off the mask, masking tape

Formal and Informal Expressions of mask

In different contexts, you can replace 'mask' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'covering, disguise' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'face covering, front' is a commonplace synonym.

mask: Explore its Definition & Usage

mask Definition

1a covering for all or part of the face that protects, hides, or decorates the person wearing it
2something that hides or disguises the true nature of something
3a way of behaving that is not sincere or honest

Using mask: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mask" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She wore a mask to protect herself from the dust.
Example
The robbers were wearing masks to hide their faces.
Example
He put on a mask of indifference to hide his true feelings.
Example
The politician's promises were just a mask for his true intentions.

mask Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mask

Antonyms for mask

Idioms Using mask

behind the mask
hidden or concealed by a false appearance
Example
Behind the mask of politeness, he was seething with anger.
put a new face/mask on something
to change the appearance or nature of something
Example
The company decided to put a new face on their product by redesigning the packaging.
face/mask the music
to accept the unpleasant consequences of one's actions
Example
After getting caught cheating, he had to face the music and accept the punishment.

Phrases with mask

put on a brave face/mask
to try to appear brave and cheerful when one is feeling scared or upset
Example
Even though she was nervous about the surgery, she put on a brave face for her family.
take off the mask
to reveal one's true self or intentions
Example
It's time for you to take off the mask and show us who you really are.
masking tape
a type of adhesive tape used to cover or protect surfaces
Example
I used masking tape to protect the edges while I painted the walls.

Origins of mask

from Middle French 'masque', from Italian 'maschera', from Medieval Latin 'masca', meaning 'witch' or 'specter'

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Summary: mask in Brief

A 'mask' [mæsk] is a covering for the face that can protect, hide, or decorate the wearer. It can also refer to something that disguises or conceals the true nature of something, such as a politician's promises. Phrases like 'put on a brave face' and 'take off the mask' describe ways of behaving or revealing one's true self. 'Masking tape' is a type of adhesive tape used to cover surfaces.