Definition of MAKEUP

1

a : the way in which the parts or ingredients of something are put together : composition the ethnic makeup of the neighborhood b : physical, mental, and moral constitution His daring attitude toward risks is a major part of his makeup.

2

a

: the operation of making up especially pages for printing

b

: design or layout of printed matter

3

a(1) : cosmetics (such as lipstick, mascara, and eye shadow) used to color and beautify the face (2) : a cosmetic applied to other parts of the body leg makeup for a tanned appearance b

: materials (such as wigs and cosmetics) used in making up or in special costuming (as for a play)

4

: replacement specifically : material added (as in a manufacturing process) to replace material that has been used up

5

: something that makes up for a previous postponement, omission, failure, or deficiency

transitive verb

1

a : to form by fitting together or assembling b

: to arrange typeset matter in (columns or pages) for printing

2

a

: to combine to produce (a sum or whole)

3

a : to compensate for (something, such as a deficiency or omission) make up the difference in lost pay b : to do or take in order to correct an omission

5

: to wrap or fasten up make the books up into a parcel

6

a

: to prepare in physical appearance for a role

b

: to apply cosmetics to

intransitive verb

1

: to become reconciled quarreled but later made up

2

a : to act ingratiatingly and flatteringly made up to his aunt for a new bicycle b : to make advances : court

4

a

: to put on costumes or makeup (as for a play)

Last Updated: 12 Jan 2023 – Updated example sentences

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Merriam-Webster unabridged