noun
makeup
MAY-kuhp
noun
1
The way something is put together; its composition or make-up of parts.
"The genetic makeup of the two species is surprisingly similar."
"You have to consider the racial and social makeup of the neighborhood."
2
Cosmetics applied to the face or skin to enhance or change appearance.
"She spent twenty minutes doing her makeup before the interview."
"The actor needed heavy makeup to look like an old man."
3
A test or piece of work done later to replace one that was missed.
"He had to take a makeup exam after missing the final due to illness."
How to Use Makeup
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither what something is made of, or the cosmetics you put on your face — context makes it obvious which.
Common pairings
wear makeup
genetic makeup
makeup exam
apply makeup
Word Forms
makeups plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “makeup”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The genetic _____ of the two species is surprisingly similar.
Etymology
Formed from the phrasal verb "make up." The cosmetics sense borrows the idea from French maquillage, "to make up" a face.