Synonyms

unmask

American

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

verb (used with object)

to strip a mask or disguise from.
to reveal the true character of; disclose; expose.
Military. to reveal the presence of (guns) by firing.

verb (used without object)

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

unmask British

/ ʌnˈmɑːsk /

verb

to remove (the mask or disguise) from (someone or oneself)
to appear or cause to appear in true character
(tr) military to make evident the presence of (weapons), either by firing or by the removal of camouflage, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

unmasker noun

Etymology

Origin of unmask

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

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.

"It allows neurodivergent people to unmask and be themselves," Ursie says.

From BBC

Wiener said he will immediately file his updated bill in order to unmask U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

They want DHS employees, namely ICE and Customs and Border Protection officers, to unmask and wear clear and visible identification.

From Salon

AFP found dozens of posts across social media, in which users shared AI-generated images purporting to "unmask" the agent who shot her.

From Barron's

Now, even though she has the wallet address of the criminals, there is nothing anyone can do to unmask them.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023