IPA: //ˈmeɪkʌp//
KK: /ˈmeɪkʌp/
Cosmetics that people put on their face to enhance or change their appearance.
She applied her makeup carefully before going out for the evening.
Makeup is formed from "make" (from Old English "macian", meaning to create or form) and "up" (meaning to a higher position or level). The word "makeup" refers to the act of creating a cosmetic appearance or enhancing one's features, often applied to the face.
Think of 'making' something new or enhancing it ('make') and 'bringing it to a higher level' ('up') — that's why makeup is about enhancing one's appearance.