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

Derived Forms

• unˈmasker, noun

Other Words From

• un·masker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unmask¹

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

Example Sentences

I departed, along with other bemused reporters, taking with us any lingering doubts that this would prove to be yet another dead-end in the quest to unmask Satoshi.

From BBC

Trump is an aspiring dictator and now unmasked, naked and increasingly bold fascist.

From Salon

It is the latest in a string of cases of western remote workers being unmasked as North Koreans.

From BBC

The series follows Ernesto, a former champion luchador betrayed by friends and unmasked in the ring after refusing to take bribes.

From Los Angeles Times

But he has never previously been named as a prime Satoshi candidate in the years that people have spent trying to unmask the Bitcoin inventor.

From BBC

Related Words

• bring to light
• expose
• uncover