masquerade
word
Definition
A masquerade is a party or dance where people wear masks and costumes. It can also mean pretending to be someone or something you are not.
Usage & Nuances
Formal or literary tone. As a noun, often 'masquerade ball/party', as a verb, 'masquerade as' is common. Figurative use can mean concealment or pretense, not just wearing a mask. Rarely used in everyday conversation except for specific contexts.
Example Sentences
We went to a masquerade where everyone wore beautiful masks.
basic
She wore a red dress to the masquerade.
basic
He tried to masquerade as a doctor, but everyone knew he was lying.
basic
Beneath the masquerade, no one could tell who was who.
natural
Sometimes people masquerade their feelings to protect themselves.
natural
The meeting turned out to be a complete masquerade; nothing was real.
natural