Disguise
/dɪsˈɡaɪz/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo give a new appearance to someone or something in order to conceal its identity.
/dɪsˈɡaɪz/
To alter the appearance of something to conceal its true identity.
He disguised his feelings with a forced smile.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing pretend and want to look like a superhero or a secret agent. Disguise is what you do! It's like putting on a different outfit or makeup to trick people into not knowing who you really are.
👶 For kids: To change how something looks so nobody knows what it really is.
More Examples
The thief disguised himself as a police officer.
The artist disguised the flaws in the painting with clever brushstrokes.
How It's Used
"The spy disguised himself as a waiter to gather information."
"She disguised herself as a pirate for the costume party."
A thing that is used to change the appearance of someone or something in order to hide its true identity.
/dɪsˈɡaɪz/
A means of altering appearance to conceal identity.
The spy wore a clever disguise.
💡 Simply: Think of it as a secret outfit or a pretend look. If you're wearing a disguise, you want to look like someone or something else so people don't know who you really are.
👶 For kids: Something that makes you look like someone or something else.
More Examples
Her elegant disguise fooled everyone at the party.
The detective's disguise helped him blend into the crowd.
How It's Used
"The robbers used a convincing disguise to enter the bank undetected."
"The artist used her disguise to enter the party unnoticed."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
in disguise
Having altered appearance; not in one's usual or true form.
"The treasure was found in disguise, hidden in a seemingly ordinary chest."
a wolf in sheep's clothing
A person or thing that appears harmless but is actually dangerous or malicious.
"The con artist, with his friendly demeanor, was a wolf in sheep's clothing."
From Old French *desguisier*, from *des-* (expressing reversal) + *guise* (manner, fashion).
Used since the 13th century, initially referring to changing appearance or behavior to deceive or conceal.
Memory tip
Think of a mask or costume that hides someone's true face.
Word Origin
"To change or alter the form of; from *des-* meaning reversal, and *guise* meaning manner or fashion."