unmask

[uhn-mask, -mahsk]

verb (used with object)

1. to strip a mask or disguise from.

2. to reveal the true character of; disclose; expose.

3. Military.,  to reveal the presence of (guns) by firing.

verb (used without object)

1. to put off one's mask; appear in true nature.

unmask

/ ʌnˈmɑːsk /

verb

1. to remove (the mask or disguise) from (someone or oneself)

2. to appear or cause to appear in true character

3. (tr) military to make evident the presence of (weapons), either by firing or by the removal of camouflage, etc

Other Word Forms

• unmasker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unmask¹

First recorded in 1580–90; un- ² + mask

Example Sentences

“Mask & Bone” by Jamesie Fournier is a slightly overwritten but otherwise masterly unmasking of ordinary family life that reveals ancient secrets and generational trauma of the supernatural kind.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

However, one dog fighter's IT mix-up led an undercover BBC investigation to unmask some of those involved in "one of Europe's largest dog fighting networks".

Read more on BBC

Which raises the question, why not help all officers feel safe enough to go unmasked, rather than allowing some to work in a fearful environment?

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The song carries extra resonance when you learn that Felix - the band's thunderous-voiced baritone - has won permission from a US court to unmask an anonymous social media user in connection with a defamation lawsuit.

Read more on BBC

Other states are also looking at similar measures to unmask federal agents.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bring to light 
• expose 
• uncover