# makeup

/ˈmeɪˌkəp/ (US) · /mˈeɪkʌp/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/makeup
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. cosmetics

noun · CEFR A2

substances like lipstick or powder that you put on your face to change your appearance.

For teachers: cosmetics such as powders, creams, or pigments applied to the skin, especially the face, to enhance or alter appearance.

- She spent twenty minutes putting on her makeup before the party started.
- The theatrical makeup required for the lead role was so heavy that the actor spent nearly an hour in the dressing room each night.

Usage: often used as an uncountable noun

### 2. composition

noun · CEFR B2

the different parts or qualities that something is made of.

For teachers: the composition or constitution of something; the combination of qualities that form a person's character.

- The chemical makeup of the soil determines which plants will grow best.
- To understand the firm's success, one must examine the genetic makeup of its leadership team and their shared commitment to innovation.

Usage: often used with the preposition 'of'

### 3. replacement exam

noun · CEFR B1 · American English

a test that a student takes because they missed or failed the first one.

For teachers: an examination or assignment offered to a student to compensate for a previous absence or failure.

- Since I was sick on Monday, the teacher let me take a makeup exam today.
- The university policy allows for a makeup session only if the student provides a valid medical certificate within forty-eight hours of the original date.

Usage: often used as a modifier before another noun like 'test' or 'exam'

## Examples

- She puts on her makeup every morning before work.
- The theater actors spent two hours in the dressing room applying heavy stage makeup for the performance.
- While professional makeup can subtly enhance natural features for the camera, excessive application under harsh studio lighting often results in an unnatural, mask-like effect.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.