masque: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Literary, Historical, Formal
Quick answer
What does “masque” mean?
A dramatic entertainment of the 16th and early 17th centuries, performed by masked amateur actors, typically combining poetry, music, dance, and elaborate sets and costumes, often for aristocratic audiences.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A dramatic entertainment of the 16th and early 17th centuries, performed by masked amateur actors, typically combining poetry, music, dance, and elaborate sets and costumes, often for aristocratic audiences.
In modern usage, it can refer to a masked ball or costume party, or figuratively to something that disguises or conceals the true nature of a person or situation. It is also an archaic spelling of 'mask'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is more commonly used in British English, especially in historical/academic contexts referring to the Renaissance form. In American English, 'masked ball' is more frequent for the modern sense, and 'mask' is the universal spelling for the covering.
Connotations
In UK, it carries stronger connotations of high art, Elizabethan/Jacobean theatre, and aristocratic culture. In US, it may more readily evoke a fancy dress party or a Mardi Gras event.
Frequency
Low frequency in both varieties, but slightly higher in UK due to historical and educational emphasis.
Grammar
How to Use “masque” in a Sentence
[Subject] performed/staged a masque.A masque of [abstract noun, e.g., jealousy, beauty].The [event] featured a masque.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “masque” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- To masque one's intentions is a dangerous game.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly metaphorical: 'The company's charity work was a masque for its unethical practices.'
Academic
Common in studies of Renaissance literature, theatre history, and cultural studies.
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used for a very formal themed party.
Technical
Specific term in theatre history and English literature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “masque”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “masque”
- Using 'masque' as the standard spelling for a surgical or protective face covering (use 'mask').
- Pronouncing it with a /kw/ sound (it's /mɑːsk/ or /mæsk/).
- Using it in everyday contexts where 'masked party' or 'costume party' is more appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Historically, yes, they were variant spellings. Today, 'mask' is standard for the face covering. 'Masque' is retained for the specific historical theatrical genre and, occasionally, for literary effect meaning a disguised or false appearance.
No. While some cosmetic companies use the French spelling 'masque' for face packs or creams, in English this is a direct borrowing from French for marketing. The standard English term is 'face mask'.
A masque was a festive, musical, and visual spectacle for aristocrats, often with minimal plot, where the performers were often amateurs (sometimes nobles themselves). A play was a commercial, professional performance with a strong narrative, intended for the public.
It is pronounced exactly like 'mask': /mɑːsk/ in British English and /mæsk/ in American English. The '-que' is silent.
A dramatic entertainment of the 16th and early 17th centuries, performed by masked amateur actors, typically combining poetry, music, dance, and elaborate sets and costumes, often for aristocratic audiences.
Masque is usually literary, historical, formal in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “behind the masque”
- “drop the masque”
- “a masque of respectability”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a QUE at the MASQue: people in elaborate masks waiting in a line for a royal court entertainment.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE / DECEPTION IS A COVERING
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely context for the word 'masque'?