MASK

Definitions

1. 1. A cover, or partial cover, for the face, used for disguise or protection; as, a dancer's mask; a fencer's mask; a ball player's mask.
2. 2. That which disguises; a pretext or subterfuge.
3. 3. A festive entertainment of dancing or other diversions, where all wear masks; a masquerade; hence, a revel; a frolic; a delusive show. Bacon. This thought might lead me through the world's vain mask. Milton.
4. 4. A dramatic performance, formerly in vogue, in which the actors wore masks and represented mythical or allegorical characters.
5. 5. A grotesque head or face, used to adorn keystones and other prominent parts, to spout water in fountains, and the like; -- called also mascaron.
6. 6. In a permanent fortification, a redoubt which protects the caponiere.
7. 7. A screen for a battery.
8. 8. The lower lip of the larva of a dragon fly, modified so as to form a prehensile organ. Mask house, a house for masquerades. [Obs.]