Spanish word

máscara

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmaskaɾa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounmask

Example

En el teatro, ella lleva una máscara dorada.

In the theater, she is wearing a golden mask.

Illustration for máscara (mask)

More examples

En el carnaval muchos se ocultaban tras una máscara para divertirse.

At the carnival many hid behind a mask to have fun.

Core concept

Ornamental face covering used in theatre, festivals, or rituals that conceals the wearer and indicates a role.

Common phrases

  • ponerse una máscara

    put on a mask

  • quitarse la máscara

    take off the mask

  • máscara veneciana

    Venetian mask

Similar words

mascarilla: Cloth or disposable mask covering nose and mouth to block germs and prevent droplet spread.
antifaz: Small decorative mask that covers only the eye area, often tied behind the head.
careta: Transparent shield that covers the whole face to protect against splashes and sprays.
barbijo: Protective cloth or paper mask covering nose and mouth to reduce transmission from breathing.

Definition in Spanish

Adorno o cubierta para el rostro usado en teatro, celebraciones o rituales que oculta identidades y señala roles.

Word origin

Spanish máscara comes from Italian maschera via Old French masque and ultimately from Late Latin masca.

Usage tips

  • English 'mascara' means eyelash makeup while Spanish 'máscara' means a face mask, and for medical or disposable masks Spanish speakers usually say 'mascarilla' or 'cubrebocas'.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word