Word: disguised

Associations

The word "disguised" means to hide the true identity or nature of something. It often refers to changing appearance or behavior to not be recognized.

• Example 1: The spy was disguised as a waiter. (Here, the spy changes their appearance to blend in.)
• Example 2: She spoke in a disguised voice to avoid being recognized. (In this case, altering her voice helps her conceal her identity.)
• Example 3: The gift was disguised as a plain box. (Here, the true content of the gift is hidden by using a normal-looking box.)

A well-known synonym for "disguised" is "hidden." However, "hidden" refers more generally to something not visible or concealed, while "disguised" emphasizes change in appearance or nature to avoid recognition.

Substitution

Some other words or phrases that can be used in place of "disguised" include:

• Masked: This suggests hiding something behind a mask or façade but often emphasizes a more active concealment.
• Camouflaged: This usually refers to blending in with the surroundings, often used in nature or military contexts, rather than changing appearance.
• Veiled: This implies a certain level of subtlety or indirectness, often used in emotional or figurative contexts.

Deconstruction

The word "disguised" comes from the root "guise," which means "appearance" or "form." The prefix "dis-" indicates a reversal or negation. Therefore, "disguised" essentially means to change one's form or appearance to hide it. The word has Old French origins, where "disguiser" meant to hide or conceal.

Inquiry

• In what situations might you need to disguise your identity?
• Have you ever used a disguise for a costume party or Halloween? How did it feel to be someone else for a while?
• Can you think of a time when something was disguised in a movie or book you enjoyed? How did that change the story?