Word

mask

noun C1

/mɑːsk/

Meanings

noun

A covering worn over the face to hide identity or as part of a costume.

noun

A protective covering worn over the nose and mouth to reduce breathing in dust, smoke, or germs.

verb

To hide or cover something, or to make something harder to notice.

Definition

A mask is something worn over the face to hide it or to protect it.

A mask is a covering that you wear on your face, often to disguise who you are or to create a particular character. It can also be worn to protect you from dust, smoke, germs, or other harmful particles in the air. In a broader sense, a mask can also refer to a false appearance used to hide true feelings or intentions.

Examples

She wore a mask to the carnival so nobody would recognize her.
I put on a mask in the workshop because the air was full of fine dust.
The comedian used a confident smile to mask his nervousness before the show.
They removed their mask at the door once they stepped outside into the fresh air.
You can’t mask the smell completely, even with strong perfume.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse the noun and verb forms and say “I mask” when they mean “I wear a mask.”