mascara

noun

mas·​cara ma-ˈsker-ə How to pronounce mascara (audio)
-ˈska-rə
Synonyms of mascaranext
: a cosmetic especially for making the eyelashes darker and more prominent
mascaraed
ma-ˈsker-əd How to pronounce mascara (audio)
-ˈska-rəd
adjective

Examples of mascara in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No makeup look is complete without mascara, and this is the tube my mom reaches for on repeat. — Grace Scollo, InStyle, 6 Aug. 2026 Gently wipe away any mascara that has transfered to the lids and surrounding areas. — Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 3 Aug. 2026 Best mascara This mascara uses a brush with nearly 500 micro bristles to coat and lift every lash without clumping or smudging. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 31 July 2026 Burgundy mascaras, plum liners, soft taupes, and even certain shades of khaki can all enhance blue eyes in different ways. — Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for mascara

Word History

Etymology

probably from Italian maschera mask

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mascara was in 1886

Rhymes for mascara

See All Rhymes for mascara

Browse Nearby Words

mascally
mascara
mascarene grass
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mascara.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mascara. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

mascara

noun
mas·​cara ma-ˈskar-ə How to pronounce mascara (audio)
: a cosmetic especially for darkening the eyelashes

More from Merriam-Webster on mascara

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for mascara

Nglish: Translation of mascara for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mascara

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