makeover
Americannoun
-
makeovers
plural
-
a remodeling; renovation; restoration.
The old house needs a complete makeover.
-
a thorough course of beauty and cosmetic treatments.
Assistants spent four hours on the actress's makeover in preparation for the awards ceremony.
-
a change made in one’s life or lifestyle.
Does your career or marriage need a makeover?
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of makeover
First recorded in 1925–30; noun use of verb phrase make over
Explanation
While it often describes transforming a person's appearance with a new hairstyle and clothing, the term makeover can also refer to updating anything, such as adding fresh paint and modern features to an old house. The idea behind a makeover is to refresh and improve, bringing about a new and enhanced appearance. For instance, a local library might receive a makeover in the form of new furniture, an expanded collection of books, and new technology for visitors. On the other hand, a makeover for a person might include a haircut, an updated wardrobe, and other changes meant to enhance their physical appearance.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
After years of unsuccessful makeover attempts by previous management teams, the British luxury trench coat brand appears to be turning a corner and increased sales by 4% over the three months through June.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
Argos is getting a makeover - but can it attract new shoppers?
From BBC ● Aug. 7, 2026
But it has grown somewhat shopworn and in need of a makeover.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 1, 2026
The sprawling complex had reopened gleaming following another makeover in June this year, promising a place where generations could "share smiles" a decade on.
From Barron's ● Jul. 30, 2026
Watching all those makeover shows has paid off, because Mom knows exactly what to do.
From "A Soft Place to Land" by Janae Marks
But thanks to a few makeovers, the 60/40 is back — and better than ever.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 15, 2026
Water Street in lower Manhattan has been a popular area for the makeovers, earning it the nickname "Conversion Alley," with buildings offering a mix of luxury and affordably-priced apartments to qualify for municipal abatements.
From Barron's ● Jun. 14, 2026
He felt “Queer Roast for the Straight Hosts” naturally sounded like “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” so he decided to roast with mock makeovers in the true “Queer Eye” fashion.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 18, 2026
Not all makeovers were created equal: Some were in service to disappearing, others to fitting in; some were manic and others melancholy.
From Salon ● Jan. 17, 2026
“It’s so fun when we have away games. Last year we did makeovers on the bus, and we prank-called Coach Fuller on her cell phone from the back. That’s her over there.”
From "Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus" by Dusti Bowling
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
