[mas.quer.ade] n [MF, fr. OIt dial. mascarada, fr. OIt maschera mask] (1587) 1 a: a social gathering of persons wearing masks and often fantastic costumes b: a costume for wear at such a gathering
2: an action or appearance that is mere disguise or outward show
[2]masquerade vi -ad.ed ; -ad.ing (1692) 1 a: to disguise oneself; also: to go about disguised b: to take part in a masquerade
2: to assume the appearance of something one is not -- mas.quer.ad.er n