masquerade
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌmæskəˈreɪd//
KK: /ˈmæskəreɪd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To behave or present oneself in a way that is not genuine, often by pretending to be someone or something else.
Example
He decided to masquerade as a famous actor at the party.
Tense Forms
Past: masqueraded
Past Participle: masqueraded
Conversation
Are you going to that fancy party tonight?
Yeah, I heard some people are going to masquerade as their favorite characters.
That sounds fun! I’ve always wanted to masquerade as a vampire.
You should definitely do it! It would be so cool to see.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
disguise
pretend
feign
Antonyms
reveal
unmask
expose
noun
Definition
A social event where people wear masks and costumes, often for fun or celebration.
Example
The annual masquerade was filled with colorful costumes and lively music.
Conversation
Are you going to the masquerade party this weekend?
Yeah, I can't wait to see everyone's costumes!
I heard it's going to be a grand masquerade with lots of surprises.
Root Explanation
Masquerade → It is formed from "masque" (from Old French *masque*, meaning a mask or disguise) and "-rade" (from the Italian *radere*, meaning to scrape or shave, but in this context, it refers to a performance or display). The word "masquerade" refers to a performance or event where participants wear masks and disguises, often to conceal their identities.
Memory Tip
Imagine a festive event where people wear 'masks' ('masque') to hide their true selves, creating a playful atmosphere of disguise and performance.
Visually Confused Words
unmasquerade
antimasquerade