Definition

Noun: - A formal dance party where attendees wear costumes and masks to conceal their identities: A masquerade ball is a social event characterized by dancing, elaborate costumes, and the wearing of masks, creating an atmosphere of mystery and anonymity.

Usage

• The term is used to describe a specific type of festive ball or party. It emphasizes the elements of disguise and costume.
• It functions as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to be a masquerade ball": Used metaphorically to describe a situation where people are hiding their true intentions or identities.
  • The diplomatic meeting was less of a negotiation and more of a masquerade ball, with everyone hiding their real agendas.

Variants and Related Words

• Masquerade (noun): Can refer to the event itself (synonymous with "masquerade ball"), the costume or disguise worn, or a pretense or false appearance.
  • He attended the masquerade in a Venetian costume.
  • Her kindness was just a masquerade to gain their trust.
• Masquerader (noun): A person who attends a masquerade ball or engages in disguise.
• Masked ball: A direct synonym for "masquerade ball."

Synonyms

• Fancy-dress ball: (Common in British English) A ball where guests wear costumes.
• Costume ball: A ball where guests wear costumes, though masks may not be explicitly required.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "A masquerade of/for...": Used to indicate that something is a disguised or false version of something else.
  • The election was a masquerade of democracy.
• "Unmask someone at the masquerade ball": A literary or figurative phrase meaning to reveal someone's true identity or intentions in a setting designed for concealment.

Noun

1. a ball at which guests wear costumes and masks