face mask

American  

Or facemask

noun

1. Sports. the protective equipment, usually made of steel or plastic, that guards the face, as the steel cage worn by a baseball catcher or the molded plastic covering worn by a hockey goalkeeper.

2. any of various similar devices to shield the face, sometimes attached to or forming part of a helmet, as that worn by workers engaged in a hazardous activity.

---

Etymology

Origin of face mask

First recorded in 1905–10; face + mask

Example Sentences

Kim, who appeared in court wearing a white face mask, kept her head lowered as the verdict was announced.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

During the removal process, she wore a face mask connected to a rolling cart of the laughing gas and oxygen tanks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

He wore a face mask and gloves while handling the deadly bundles.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

If you are unwell but must go out, consider wearing a face mask.

From BBC • Jan. 8, 2026

She turns, pulling on her face mask and bolting for the door.

From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott