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Definition of makeup

makeup

/ˈmeɪk.ʌp/
(UK: make-up)
make · up

Plural:makeups
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makeup Lexical Profile

makeup Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Cosmetics such as lipstick, powder, or foundation applied to the face to enhance or alter one's appearance.

Example

"She works as a professional artist applying makeup for film and television actors."


2

The composition, constitution, or structure of something.

Example

"Scientists studied the chemical makeup of the newly discovered mineral."


3

The mental or moral qualities or temperament of an individual.

Example

"Jealousy was simply not part of her psychological makeup."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for makeup

Word Nuance & Usage

Frequently written with a hyphen ('make-up') in British English, whereas the unhyphenated single word ('makeup') is more standard in American English.

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century as a compound noun derived from the phrasal verb 'make up'. It originally referred to the way an actor was prepared (or 'made up') for the stage before broadening to general cosmetics and structural composition.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Makeup. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/makeup
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