French Conversation · Level 17
90 words
French word
masque
Pronunciation
IPA/mask/
Meaning
- masculine nounmask
Example
Il met un masque quand il est malade.
He puts on a mask when he is sick.
More examples
En rentrant à la maison, il retire son masque.
When he gets home, he removes his mask.
Core concept
One face covering that can serve as protective equipment, a disguise, or a cosmetic treatment.
Common phrases
mettre son masque
put on one's mask
retirer son masque
remove one's mask
masque facial
face mask
Similar words
masque chirurgical: A disposable nonwoven face covering worn over the mouth and nose for protection.
masque en tissu: A washable cloth face covering that can be reused over the mouth and nose.
masque FFP2: A high-filtration protective mask that blocks droplets and fine particles.
visière: A transparent plastic shield covering the front of the face to block droplets.
Definition in French
Objet qui couvre le visage pour protéger la bouche et le nez, cacher l'identité ou appliquer un soin cosmétique.
Word origin
The French noun masque is an Italian borrowing from maschera, whose early uses centered on covering the face during theatrical or festive activities.
Usage tips
- For the common protective sense, French uses both porter un masque and mettre un masque, with porter emphasizing wearing it.
Other meanings
- face packnoun
Opposites
- visage nubare facenoun
Related words
- masquerconcealverb
- masquémaskedadjective