WordGarden.iomakeup
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈeɪkʌp/
US
- /ˈmeɪˌkəp/
Meanings
Noun
cosmetics worn on the face or body to improve appearance
the composition or characteristic nature of a person, group, or thing
a replacement exam or assignment taken after missing the original one
Beyond the definition
"Makeup" is a word with several common uses. Most often, it means cosmetics such as lipstick, foundation, or eyeshadow that people put on their faces to change or improve their appearance. You might picture an actor putting on makeup before going on stage. It can also mean the composition of something, such as the makeup of a team, a class, or even a person's character. In schools, sports, and work, it can describe something that replaces what was missed, such as a makeup exam or a makeup game. The exact meaning depends on the context, but these are the uses you will meet most often.
The word "makeup" is surprisingly multifaceted. Its most familiar meaning refers to cosmetics—products like foundation, mascara, and lipstick used to enhance or alter someone's appearance. A skilled makeup artist can create stunning transformations, from subtle daily looks to dramatic theatrical characterizations. For example, "She spent an hour doing her makeup before the gala."
However, "makeup" also functions as a noun meaning the composition or basic character of something. This usage refers to what something is made of or how its parts are arranged. You might say, "The makeup of the committee included scientists and artists," or "His psychological makeup makes him very resilient." In schools, sports, and work, "makeup" can also describe something arranged to replace what was missed, such as a "makeup exam," a "makeup class," or a "makeup game."
The word comes from the phrasal verb "to make up." As a verb, that phrase can mean to become friendly again after an argument or to invent something, such as a story or excuse. Still, the noun "makeup" is usually used for cosmetics, composition, or a replacement event. The original idea was quite literal: someone "made up" a face with powders and paints. Over time, the noun grew to include a person's inner character, the structure of a group, and scheduled replacements for things that were missed.
Examples
- 1
Cosmetics
She put on a little makeup before the interview.
- 2
Summer routine
I don't wear much makeup in the summer.
- 3
Bedtime
Don't forget to take your makeup off before bed.
- 4
Film work
The makeup artist made the actor look twenty years older.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Group composition
The company studied the makeup of its customer base.
- Patternthe makeup of + group/thing
the parts or people that form it
- 6
Character
Patience is a big part of her makeup.
- 7
Missed test
Students who missed the test can take a makeup exam on Friday.
- Phrasemakeup exam/class
one held later to replace a missed one
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- face paint
- maquillage
Contrast
- bare face
- natural look
Used with (collocations)
- apply makeup
- wear makeup
- remove makeup
- makeup artist
Word family
- made-up
Explore
- foundation
- skincare
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- makeupnoun
Forms
- makeupspluralnoun