Definition of masquerade

< masquer

mass >

mas·quer·ade    (msk-rd) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. A costume party at which masks are worn; a masked ball. Also called masque.
   2. A costume for such a party or ball.
2. 1. A disguise or false outward show; a pretense: a masquerade of humility.
   2. An involved scheme; a charade.

intr.v.
mas·quer·ad·ed, mas·quer·ad·ing, mas·quer·ades

1. To wear a mask or disguise, as at a masquerade: She masqueraded as a shepherd.
2. To go about as if in disguise; have or put on a deceptive appearance: The stowaway masqueraded as a crew member.

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ETYMOLOGY:
French mascarade, from Italian mascarata, variant of mascherata, from Old Italian maschera, mask ; see mask

OTHER FORMS:
masquer·ader(Noun)