unmask

American  

[uhn-mask, -mahsk] / ʌnˈmæsk, -ˈmɑsk /

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.

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verb (used without object)

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

unmask British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• unmasker noun

Etymology

Origin of unmask

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

Example Sentences

However, the identity of Stakeknife is not expected to be revealed, despite investigators requesting government permission to unmask the spy.

From BBC

To disrupt that message, West suggests unmasking the obvious fact that the content creators themselves are con artists selling a sham product.

From Salon

“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.

From The Wall Street Journal

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?

From 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.

From BBC

Related Words

• bring to light
• expose
• uncover