unmasked

Unmasked is an adjective that denotes not wearing a mask, or the act of revealing what was hidden. It describes both a physical state—being without a face covering—and a metaphorical process, such as unmasking a deception or exposing a truth. The term is formed by the prefix un- attached to mask and is used across everyday language and various specialized contexts.

In health and public policy, the word is often used to contrast masked versus unmasked conditions, especially during discussions of infection control, safety practices, and social behavior. In literature, cinema, and music, unmasked frequently appears as a thematic motif, signaling disclosure, authenticity, or the stripping away of pretense.

Because Unmasked is also a common title for artistic works, it has been adopted by multiple films, documentaries, books, and songs. Each use typically centers on revelation, exposure, or the unveiling of identity. Given the plurality of works with this title, readers should consult the specific article or source to learn about its subject, creator, and context.