Ontmaskerd

Ontmaskerd is a Dutch term that functions as the past participle of the verb ontmaskeren. It describes something that has been revealed, exposed, or brought into the open—typically a truth, identity, or motive that was previously concealed. As an adjective or as part of a passive construction, ontmaskerd indicates that concealment has ended and the hidden aspect is now known.

Etymology: The word combines ont- (un-/dis-) with maskeren (to mask) from masker (mask). The form ontmaskerd is commonly used in written Dutch to denote completed action and resultant state.

Usage: In journalism, politics, and literature, ontmaskerd is used to signal exposure. Examples include "de ontmaskerde identiteit" or "de ontmaskerde samenzwering," though the term is flexible and often appears in phrases like "het ontmaskerde feit" or "de ontmaskerde waarheid." The noun ontmaskering refers to the act of unmasking or the process by which something is exposed.

Variants and related terms: ontmaskeren (to unmask), ontmaskering (unmasking), masker (mask), misleiding (deception), onthulling (revelation). In English, closest translations are "unmasked" or "unmasking," depending on grammatical context.

See also: masker; masker dragen; onthulling; onthullen. References: Dutch dictionaries define ontmaskeren as exposing the true identity or motives; common usage appears in media, fiction, and analysis.