Masquerade: meaning, definitions and examples

A formal or semi-formal event where guests wear masks and often elaborate costumes. It can imply deception or the hiding of one's true identity.

• The charity is hosting a masquerade to raise funds
• The movie had a scene set in a grand masquerade where the plot's secrets were revealed

A casual or informal gathering where participants wear costumes, often for fun or to celebrate events like Halloween.

• We had a costume party for Halloween, and everyone dressed as their favorite characters
• She won the best costume award at the costume party last night

A formal dance event where guests wear masks and elegant attire. Often associated with sophistication and mystery.

• The Royal Palace is holding a masked ball next month
• In the novel, the protagonist meets her true love at a masked ball

Use 'masquerade' when referring to a type of party or event where people wear masks and costumes. It can also imply pretending to be something or someone you're not, especially in a superficial or deceptive way.

• The annual masquerade ball was always the highlight of the social season.
• She discovered that his friendliness was just a masquerade to gain her trust.

Use 'pretend' when referring to acting in a way to make others believe something that isn't true. It's often used in everyday situations, including children playing or someone making a false claim.

• The children love to pretend they are superheroes.
• She pretended to be sick so she could skip school.

Use 'disguise' when talking about altering your appearance or identity to hide who you really are. It can be physical, like wearing a costume, or metaphorical, like hiding one's intentions.

• He wore a disguise to avoid being recognized by his fans.
• Her kind words were just a disguise for her true feelings of resentment.