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Unmask Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽญ
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unmask

[สŒnหˆmรฆsk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

social media

To reveal the true identity of someone who has been concealing it, typically on social media platforms.

Synonyms

expose, reveal, uncover.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmask

Typically used when revealing someone's true identity or intentions, often in scenarios involving deceit or disguise.

  • The detective's investigation helped to unmask the criminal mastermind behind the operations.
  • During the meeting, his true motives were unmasked.
reveal

Used more broadly for making known something that was previously secret or hidden. It can be used in neutral, positive, or negative contexts.

  • She revealed her plans for the future during the interview.
  • The magician revealed the secret behind his trick.
expose

Often used to bring something hidden or secret to public attention, usually in a way that might cause scandal or criticism.

  • The journalist's article aimed to expose the corruption within the government.
  • His lies were exposed during the trial.
uncover

Implies discovery through investigation or exploration, often used in context of finding out facts, information, or objects that were hidden.

  • Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient tomb in Egypt.
  • The reporter uncovered evidence of financial fraud.

Examples of usage

  • He was finally unmasked as the mysterious author behind the popular blog.
  • The anonymous troll was unmasked by the online community.
Context #2 | Noun

theater

A covering for the face or head, especially with eye holes, worn for disguise or protection.

Synonyms

disguise, face covering, mask.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmask

Used again for emphasis, meaning the act of revealing what is concealed, especially in a dramatic or public manner.

  • The plot twist at the end of the movie unmasked the villain
  • The journalist's investigation finally unmasked the corrupt politician
mask

Can refer to both a protective covering for the face, or a device used to hide one's identity in various settings.

  • She wore a surgical mask to prevent infection
  • The party guests wore elaborate masks
disguise

Used when someone is intentionally altering their appearance to hide their identity.

  • He put on a disguise to avoid being recognized
  • The spy traveled in disguise
face covering

Often used in contexts related to health and safety to refer to something worn over the nose and mouth, or in customs and traditions.

  • Everyone is required to wear a face covering in the hospital
  • Face coverings are a common sight during the festival

Examples of usage

  • The actor wore a dramatic unmask during the masquerade ball scene.
  • The villain's unmask revealed his true intentions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Unmasking can refer to revealing one's true feelings or identities, often in therapeutic settings as part of personal growth.
  • The act of unmasking is linked to vulnerability and the journey of self-discovery, shedding layers of pretense.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often unmask themselves during pivotal moments to reveal their true intentions.
  • Many stories use the theme of unmasking to explore identities and societal roles, shedding light on hidden truths.

Pop Culture

  • In various superhero films, the act of unmasking symbolizes the hero revealing their true self to the world, often leading to major plot developments.
  • Masked performances, like those in the 'Masked Singer', involve unmasking contestants to reveal their identities, creating a sense of surprise.

History

  • During historical masquerade balls, unmasking was a dramatic moment, revealing individualsโ€™ true identities and often leading to surprising connections.
  • In contexts of espionage and politics, unmasking has played crucial roles in revealing hidden agendas or true loyalties throughout history.

Origin of 'unmask'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'mask', which refers to covering the face.
  • In English, 'mask' has roots in the 16th century from the French word 'masque', which meant a disguise or cover.

The word 'unmask' originated from the combination of 'un-' (indicating removal or reversal) and 'mask', which comes from the Middle French word 'masque' and the Italian word 'maschera'. The concept of unmasking has been used metaphorically in literature and theater to signify revealing the truth or essence behind a facade.

See also: mask, masked, masking.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,927, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.