masked ball

IPA/ˌmɑːskt ˈbɔːl/
IPA/ˌmæskt ˈbɔːl/

masked ball — noun

1. a formal social event where guests cover their faces with masks, often wearing e

1.nounB1
Definition

a formal social event where guests cover their faces with masks, often wearing elegant costumes as well

Example

The Watanabe family attended a masked ball at the Grand Hotel last New Year's Eve.

Clara spent weeks designing her costume for the charity masked ball.

collocation: charity masked ball

Common collocations
  • host a masked ball
  • attend a masked ball
  • charity masked ball
  • masked ball + costume
  • masked ball + mask
Synonyms
  • masquerade ball

    more common modern term; suggests the same type of masked formal dance

  • costume party

    less formal; attendees may wear any costume, not necessarily masks

  • fancy-dress party

    British English equivalent; not specific to masks

Usage Note

Often describes a grand, elegant event from historical European high society or a modern themed party that tries to recreate that atmosphere. Less common in everyday speech than 'masquerade ball' or 'costume party'.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

A 'masked ball' specifically requires guests to wear masks and implies a formal, elegant atmosphere — think chandeliers, ballroom dancing, and formal attire. A 'masquerade ball' is essentially the same thing, but the word 'masquerade' (from French 'mascarade') is now the more widely used term in American English. A 'costume party' is less formal: guests wear any kind of costume (superhero, animal, historical figure) and masks are optional. 'Fancy-dress party' is the British English equivalent of 'costume party'. If an invitation says 'masked ball,' expect a dress code and a mask; if it says 'costume party,' you can show up as a pirate.

masquerade ballcostume partyfancy-dress party

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • throw a masked ball
  • hold a masked ball
  • go to a masked ball

Prepositions

Etymology

ArabicLatinFrenchEnglish

The phrase combines two borrowed French words. 'Mask' comes from French 'masque', which traces back to Arabic 'maskharah' (meaning 'buffoon' or 'mockery'), referring to the disguise worn by performers. 'Ball' comes from French 'bal', from Latin 'ballare' (to dance). The two words came together in English in the 18th century to describe the fashionable masquerade events held in the courts and opera houses of Europe.