Words / C1

mask-uh-RAYD/ˌmæskəˈreɪd/

A masquerade is a false show or pretence: a masquerade of a full house, masquerade as cover (also a verb). Mask and pretend (already in the dictionary) are the everyday set; a packed caption on an empty cell is still not a certificate.

Meaning

A false show or pretence; also to pretend to be something (verb; from mask, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• ““Full house” on an empty cell is a masquerade, not a certificate.”
• “Pretence is the close twin. Mask is already in this course. Full house is a vibe. A number on a certificate is the rule. Count the seats; then keep the caption if the cap still holds.”

Good to know

A false show; a pretence. Everyday: pretence. Related: mask (already in the dictionary). “Full house” ≠ a cap.

Near in meaning

pretence, façade, sham

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