gas mask

American  

noun

1. a masklike device containing or attached to a component that filters the air inhaled by the wearer through charcoal and chemicals, for protecting the face and lungs against noxious gases and fumes, as in warfare or in certain industrial processes.

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gas mask British  

noun

1. Also called (in Britain): respirator.  a mask fitted with a chemical filter to enable the wearer to breathe air free of poisonous or corrosive gases: used for military or industrial purposes

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Etymology

Origin of gas mask

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

Three-year-old Agatha Acker, in a cute gingham outfit and gas mask, brought along her doll, Betty Lou, also tricked out in a pretty dress, and a gas mask.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

He also keeps a gas mask, helmet and body armor on hand, he said, just in case.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 5, 2025

The bill, like the state-level bills, includes some exceptions for instances when officers might use a gas mask or are engaged in non-public operations.

From Salon • Jul. 19, 2025

In the crush of events, someone shoved a gas mask into Armstrong’s hands and pulled her to safety.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 13, 2025

Then I realized what it was: a gas mask.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs