disguising

Disguising is the act of altering one's appearance, behavior, or perceived identity to conceal or transform who a person is. It can involve cosmetic changes, clothing, props, or changes in voice and mannerisms. Disguises are used for a variety of purposes, including privacy, security, performance, or social interaction, and they may be intentional or artistic.

Common techniques include makeup and prosthetics, costumes or masks, wigs and hair styling, and changes in posture, gait, or speech. In theater, film, and cosplay, disguises are employed to portray characters, create dramatic irony, or explore different identities. In everyday life, disguising may be used to blend into a crowd, protect personal safety, or maintain anonymity in public spaces.

Historically, disguising appears in rituals, masquerade balls, theater of ancient cultures, and military or intelligence contexts. The practice has evolved with fashion, media, and technology, expanding to digital disguises such as online personas and avatars, as well as physical disguises.

Ethical and legal considerations surround disguising. Deception can raise questions about consent, trust, and safety, especially when used to misrepresent facts, impersonate others, or evade authorities. Cultural and artistic uses are generally distinguished from criminal deception by intent, context, and transparency.