C1noun1K

Mask

UK /["/mɑːsk/"]/US /["/mæsk/"]/

Definition

something that you wear over your face to hide it, or to frighten or entertain other people

In simple words: A cover for the face that hides it or protects it.

Examples

  • She wore a mask to the costume party to conceal her identity.
  • During the pandemic, people were encouraged to wear a mask to prevent the spread of the virus.
  • The actor removed his mask after the performance.
  • The mask of happiness he showed was only a disguise for his sadness.
  • The mask used in painting served to protect the areas that should not be colored.
  • In some cultures, people wear a ceremonial mask during traditional dances.
  • The mask helped filter out dust particles in the workshop.

Usage notes

Use 'mask' when talking about face coverings for protection or disguise. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid it in discussions about personal identity unless referring to metaphorical masking.

Grammar pattern

mask + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'mask' as a 'masquerade' that hides your face.

Collocations

  • face
  • facial
  • full-face
  • have on
  • wear
  • don
  • conceal something
  • cover something
  • hide something
  • behind a/​the mask
  • beneath a/​the mask
  • in a/​the mask
  • face
  • facial
  • full-face
  • have on
  • wear
  • don
  • conceal something
  • cover something
  • hide something
  • behind a/​the mask
  • beneath a/​the mask
  • in a/​the mask
  • blank
  • cold
  • emotionless
  • slip
  • behind a/​the mask
  • mask for
  • a mask of indifference

Synonyms

  • covering
  • disguise
  • face shield
  • veil
  • costume

Antonyms

  • reveal
  • unmask

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'masking tape' - remember that 'mask' can refer to face coverings.
  • Using 'masked' only in a figurative sense - it can also refer to physical coverings.
  • Thinking 'mask' only refers to Halloween or costume masks - it also refers to medical masks.