masking tape

American  

noun

1. an easily removed adhesive tape used temporarily for defining margins, protecting surfaces, etc., as when painting, and sometimes also for binding, sealing, or mending.

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masking tape British  

noun

1. an adhesive tape used to mask and protect surfaces surrounding an area to be painted

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Etymology

Origin of masking tape

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

A yet-to-be-opened trading floor was a barren expanse with rows of wooden desks still covered in blue masking tape and empty computer stands awaiting monitors to be screwed onto them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

Some fake tanners are even using masking tape - the type I use on my skirting boards - to create that crisp line across their skin.

From BBC • Aug. 3, 2025

The blast wave nevertheless tossed all of his stock into a jumble of shower handles and hoses, boxes of masking tape and home repair tools — all covered in fine, metallic-gray dust.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 27, 2024

Butcher marked the individual accent shingles on the addition himself, with blue and green masking tape, from the steps of a ladder held by Harris.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 20, 2023

Roll of masking tape clamped in her teeth.

From "The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle" by Leslie Connor