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.

---

masking tape British  

noun

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

---

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

They brought duct and masking tape and filled cardboard boxes with the rest of Merritt’s belongings.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2025

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

I lie to Heather about the masking tape and say I put it back in the supply box.

From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson