Make-up

UK //ˈmeɪk.ʌp//US //ˈmeɪk.ʌp//

Definition

to put powder, lipstick, etc. on your/somebody’s face to make it more attractive or to prepare for an appearance in the theatre, on television, etc.

In simple words: Cosmetics like lipstick or eyeshadow that people use to look better.

Examples

She applied make-up before going to the party.
His face was covered in make-up for the theatrical performance.
The teachers scheduled a make-up exam for students who missed the test.
We need a make-up class to cover the material from last week.
The make-up of the team changed after the new players joined.
Scientists studied the chemical make-up of the substance.

Usage notes

Use 'make-up' when referring to cosmetics in general. It can be informal in some contexts (like conversations among friends), but is appropriate in beauty-related discussions. Avoid using this term in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

make-up + object

Memory hint

Think of 'make-up' as putting a 'make-believe' layer on your face!

Collocations

wear make-up
apply make-up
remove make-up
make-up artist
beauty make-up

Synonyms

cosmetics
beauty products
face paint
foundation
blush

Antonyms

remove
erase

Common mistakes

Confused with 'make up' (to invent an excuse) and 'make-up' (cosmetics).
Using 'make-up' as a verb when it is a noun.
Mixing up the spelling with hyphen and no hyphen forms.