mascara

noun

mas·​cara ma-ˈsker-ə 

-ˈska-rə

: a cosmetic especially for making the eyelashes darker and more prominent

mascaraed

ma-ˈsker-əd 

-ˈska-rəd

adjective

Examples of mascara in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Things veer slightly more toward the dramatic when the 33-year-old swipes on the volumizing DiorShow mascara. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 13 Nov. 2025

Items like mascara and eyeliner have shorter lifespans due to their potential for bacteria, while blush, foundation, and concealer might be okay for more prolonged use. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025

When the book got big on TikTok in 2020, that was one of the types of videos that people made over and over — snot coming out of their noses, mascara running down their faces, heaving sobs. —Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 4 Nov. 2025

However, Laura Harrier reminded us just how popular slick backs are, while replacing her shadowless eyes with mascara and a clay-toned lip. —Essence, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably from Italian maschera mask

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mascara

• aspera
• barbera
• barrera
• caldera
• cascara
• chimaera
• chimera
• cordillera
• diptera
• drosera
• patera
• provera

Kids Definition

mascara

noun

mas·​cara ma-ˈskar-ə 

: a cosmetic especially for darkening the eyelashes