Unmasked

To reveal or expose someone or something previously hidden, concealed, or disguised; to strip away a facade or pretense, allowing the true nature or identity to become apparent. This often implies a negative or surprising revelation, uncovering secrets, betrayals, or the true character of an individual or situation. It can apply to individuals, organizations, behaviors, or even abstract concepts. The act of unmasking can range from a gentle unveiling to a dramatic exposure, impacting perceptions and relationships in profound ways. It can also be the end result of some investigative process, such as by a journalist or secret agency.

Unmasked meaning with examples

• The investigative journalist's report Unmasked a widespread corruption scheme within the city council, revealing illegal financial transactions and the illicit dealings of several prominent politicians. The public was shocked, their trust in the authorities shattered as the extent of the deception came to light, leading to calls for resignation and criminal charges against several public figures.
• After years of carefully crafted public image, the CEO's questionable business practices were finally Unmasked during a company audit. The true extent of their greed and unethical behavior was exposed, resulting in an immediate loss of confidence from shareholders and causing the company's stock to plummet. The once respected leader faced ruin.
• The spy's true identity was Unmasked by counter-intelligence operatives after a series of intercepted communications. Their years of infiltration and manipulation were brought to an abrupt end as their real allegiance and mission became apparent, leading to their capture and the unraveling of a larger espionage network. The country breathed a sigh of relief.
• As the social media filters wore off, the influencer's artificial persona was Unmasked, showing her real, unfiltered self to her followers. The reality differed significantly from her meticulously curated online image, leading to mixed reactions; while some expressed disappointment, others found her newfound authenticity refreshing and endearing, finding commonality.