What does mask mean?
A mask is a covering that hides or protects the face, and by extension it can conceal a person's identity, an object, or information. The word is common in physical, social, and technical contexts: people wear masks for protection, performance, privacy, or disguise, while organizations and writers may speak of masking risks, identifying details, facts, or unpleasant information. As a verb, 'to mask' means to hide something from view, awareness, or disclosure. It often implies that the concealment is deliberate rather than accidental. Although a mask can refer to a physical covering, the term has also developed broader metaphorical uses, especially in discussions of security, finance, acoustics, and communication. The word is therefore useful not only for describing something worn over the face but also for identifying systems and practices that make something less visible or accessible.
A covering worn over the face, or any device or arrangement used to conceal, disguise, or protect something.
"The cyclist wore a mask against the cold wind."
The physical sense includes both protective coverings and disguises.
To conceal, disguise, or prevent something from being seen, heard, understood, or disclosed.
"The editing process can mask important differences between the two versions."
Often implies intentional concealment or obscuring.
The plural is used for multiple physical coverings or for different types, examples, or functions of a mask.
"The museum displayed masks from several different traditions."
The word 'mask' has travelled from theatrical disguise to face coverings, security concealment, and even the masking of information.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mask come from?
The English word entered Middle English through French masque, from Italian maschera. The Italian word is generally traced to Arabic, although the precise historical development and the intended sense of the Arabic source are debated. From its early use for a face covering or disguise, the word developed senses for concealment and, later, for protective face coverings and devices that obscure or control access.
Related word forms
How mask is actually used
The noun is standard in British and US English. 'Mask' is neutral when referring to a face covering, while 'masking' can describe the act of covering the face or concealing something. In computing and security contexts, 'mask' often means to obscure or replace sensitive information.
Easily confused with mask
A mask is a physical covering or disguise, whereas a masquerade is an event or activity involving disguises and sometimes masks.