noun / verb

masquerade

mas-kuh-RAYD/ˌmæskəˈreɪd/

An assumed identity presented through disguise.

The guests masquerade in elaborate costumes and masks.

Adults in elaborate masked costumes mingle at a masquerade ball, tasteful historically inspired costumes, no signage.

Etymology

A mascherata was a gathering where people wore masks. The concealment of identity at such gatherings supplied the broader meanings of disguise and, figuratively, a false outward show.

In context

Libranima197:09

Tom Cecial, that he might not be known by his gossip when they met, fitted on over his own natural nose the false masquerade one that has been mentioned

Don Quixote - Cervantes (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 3 of 4

More examples

His masquerade as a doctor ends when someone checks his credentials.
The fake website masquerades as a trusted charity.
She maintains the masquerade by wearing a uniform and using a false name.

Forms

masquerade · masquerades · masqueraded · masquerading

masquerader noun — A person who assumes a false identity.

Similar words

impersonation: Emphasizes acting as another person, often a specific individual.
pretense: Includes false feelings or claims, not just assumed identities.
disguise: Emphasizes concealing identity rather than presenting a false one.