verb (used with object)
- to strip a mask or disguise from.
- to reveal the true character of; disclose; expose.
- Military. to reveal the presence of (guns) by firing.
verb (used without object)
- to put off one’s mask; appear in true nature.
verb
- to remove (the mask or disguise) from (someone or oneself)
- to appear or cause to appear in true character
- (tr) military to make evident the presence of (weapons), either by firing or by the removal of camouflage, etc
v.1580s in figurative sense, c.1600 in literal sense, from un- (2) + mask (v.). Related: Unmasked; unmasking.