mascara
UK[mæˈskɑːrə]US[mæˈskerə]
n
a cosmetic substance for darkening, thickening, and defining eyelashes.
Etymology
the word 'mascara' entered english in the late 19th century from spanish, where it originally meant 'a stain' or 'a mask'. the spanish term itself is likely derived from the italian 'maschera', meaning 'mask', which traces back to medieval latin 'masca' ('mask, specter'). the ultimate origin is obscure but may be from arabic 'maskharah' ('buffoon, mockery') or a pre-latin source. the semantic evolution from 'mask' to a cosmetic for the eyes is logical, as both serve to disguise or alter appearance, with the modern product focusing specifically on enhancing the eyelashes.
Analysis
the word is a loanword borrowed as a whole unit from spanish. it does not contain separable morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
she applied a coat of waterproof mascara before going to the beach.
this mascara is famous for giving incredible volume without clumping.
he accidentally smudged his mascara while rubbing his eyes.