Definition of makeup
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a : the way in which the parts or ingredients of something are put together : composition the ethnic makeup of the neighborhood
b : physical, mental, and moral constitution
His daring attitude toward risks is a major part of his makeup.
2a : the operation of making up especially pages for printing
b : design or layout of printed matter
3a(1) : cosmetics (such as lipstick, mascara, and eye shadow) used to color and beautify the face
(2) : a cosmetic applied to other parts of the body
leg makeup for a tanned appearance
b : materials (such as wigs and cosmetics) used in making up or in special costuming (as for a play)
4 : replacement specifically : material added (as in a manufacturing process) to replace material that has been used up makeup water
5 : something that makes up for a previous postponement, omission, failure, or deficiency a makeup exam
make up
verbmade up; making up; makes up
Definition of make up (Entry 2 of 2)
1a : to form by fitting together or assembling
make up a train of cars
b : to arrange typeset matter in (columns or pages) for printing
2a : to combine to produce (a sum or whole)
b : constitute, compose 10 chapters make up this volume
3a : to compensate for (something, such as a deficiency or omission)
make up the difference in lost pay
b : to do or take in order to correct an omission
make up a history exam
5 : to wrap or fasten up
make the books up into a parcel
6a : to prepare in physical appearance for a role
b : to apply cosmetics to
1 : to become reconciled
quarreled but later made up
2a : to act ingratiatingly and flatteringly
made up to his aunt for a new bicycle
b : to make advances : court
3 : compensate make up for lost time
4a : to put on costumes or makeup (as for a play)
b : to apply cosmetics
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Share makeup
Time Traveler for makeup
The first known use of makeup was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century