Definition of masquerade
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: a social gathering of persons wearing masks and often fantastic costumes
b
: a costume for wear at such a gathering
2
: an action or appearance that is mere disguise or show
masquerade
verb
masqueraded; masquerading
Definition of masquerade (Entry 2 of 2)
1a
: to disguise oneself
also
: to go about disguised
b
: to take part in a masquerade
2
: to assume the appearance of something one is not
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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The first known use of masquerade was in 1587
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