Mask

Definition

A covering for all or part of the face, typically to conceal or protect it.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mæsk/
• Respelling: MASK (with "MASK" as in "task")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɑːsk/
• Respelling: MAH-sk (with "MAH" as in "car" and "sk" as in "task")

In both dialects, "mask" places the primary stress on the single syllable. The pronunciation differs slightly between American and British English, with "MASK" in American English and "MAH-sk" in British English.

Etymology

The word "mask" is derived from the Middle French word "masque," meaning "covering to hide or guard the face," which in turn originates from the Italian "maschera" and the Medieval Latin "masca" meaning "mask, specter, nightmare".

Derivatives

• Masked
• Masking
• Masker
• Mask-like
• Masking tape

Synonyms

• Disguise
• Veil
• Cover

Antonyms

• Reveal
• Unmask
• Expose

Usage

• People wore masks during the carnival.
• She put on a mask to conceal her identity.
• In light of the pandemic, wearing a mask became a common preventative measure.

Related Terms

• Face shield
• Respirator
• Conceal
• Masquerade
• Protective gear

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A covering worn on the face to conceal one's identity.
• Example: He wore a mask to the masquerade ball.

• A protective covering worn to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Example: Doctors recommend wearing a mask to protect against airborne viruses.

• An object resembling a face that is used as a decoration.
• Example: The tribal mask was made of wood and adorned with feathers.

Verb

• To conceal or hide something from view.
• Example: He masked his true intentions behind a smile.

• To cover or shield a part of something, especially so as to protect it.
• Example: She used tape to mask the edges while painting the wall.

• To reduce the sound or force of something.
• Example: The medication masked the pain but did not cure the underlying issue.