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
verb
made 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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The Exceptions Quiz III
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- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

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Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
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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