IPA: //mæˈskɛrə//
KK: /mæˈskɛrə/
A type of makeup used to darken and enhance the appearance of eyelashes.
She applied mascara to make her eyes stand out more.
A cosmetic product used to darken, lengthen, and define the eyelashes.
She applied mascara to her eyelashes before going out.
Past: mascarad
Past Participle: mascarad
**Mascara** → The word 'mascara' comes from the Spanish word 'máscara', which means mask or disguise. The term is derived from the Arabic 'maskhara' (meaning to mock or to make fun of), which relates to the idea of altering one's appearance. Thus, mascara refers to a cosmetic used to enhance the eyes, often creating a 'masked' or more dramatic look.
Think of the Spanish word for mask, 'máscara', to remember that mascara is used to create a more dramatic appearance for the eyes, almost like putting on a mask.