CLOAK Synonyms: 130 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'cloak' differ from other similar words?

The words disguise and mask are common synonyms of cloak . While all three words mean "to alter the dress or appearance of so as to conceal the identity or true nature," cloak suggests a means of hiding a movement or an intention. // cloaked their maneuvers in secrecy

Q: When is it sensible to use 'disguise' instead of 'cloak'?

While the synonyms disguise and cloak are close in meaning, disguise implies a change in appearance or behavior that misleads by presenting a different apparent identity. // disguised herself as a peasant

Q: When is 'mask' a more appropriate choice than 'cloak'?

In some situations, the words mask and cloak are roughly equivalent. However, mask suggests some often obvious means of hiding or disguising something. // smiling to mask his discontent

cloak 1 of 2

noun

ˈklōk

Definition of cloak next

as in veil

something that covers or conceals like a piece of cloth the cloak of mystery that surrounds the royal family

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in cape

a sleeveless garment worn so as to hang over the shoulders, arms, and back threw a cloak around his shoulders

Synonyms & Similar Words

cloak

2 of 2

verb

as in to disguise

to change the dress or looks of so as to conceal true identity the outlaw nation had cloaked its chemical weapons plant as a fertilizer factory

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to conceal

to keep secret or shut off from view cloaked their military maneuvers from the outside world

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb cloak differ from other similar words?

The words disguise and mask are common synonyms of cloak. While all three words mean "to alter the dress or appearance of so as to conceal the identity or true nature," cloak suggests a means of hiding a movement or an intention.

cloaked their maneuvers in secrecy

When is it sensible to use disguise instead of cloak?

While the synonyms disguise and cloak are close in meaning, disguise implies a change in appearance or behavior that misleads by presenting a different apparent identity.

disguised herself as a peasant

When is mask a more appropriate choice than cloak?

In some situations, the words mask and cloak are roughly equivalent. However, mask suggests some often obvious means of hiding or disguising something.

smiling to mask his discontent

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cloak

Noun

Sundar is temporarily released from the cloak of anonymity that threatened to submerge him below the waves of talent in the global capital of cricket that is India. —

Tim Ellis, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 Adult morning cloaks hibernate in cracks in tree bark, wood piles, or leaf litter. —

Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2024

Verb

While cloaked in language about slavery, the measure is really about prisoners’ ability to refuse to work. —

The Mercury News/east Bay Times Editorial Boards, The Mercury News, 3 Oct. 2024 The project, which is cloaked in secrecy, has aligned an impressive ensemble, with Rebecca Ferguson, Idris Elba, Jared Harris, Greta Lee, Anthony Ramos, Tracy Letts, Moses Ingram and Gabriel Basso all set to appear in the movie. —

Brent Lang, Variety, 25 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cloak

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cloak

Noun

Photo: Kaela Leone Photography For some, scene-stealing veils are necessary to reflect the bride’s entire fashion direction for the wedding.

Alice Newbold, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2024
As fundamentalists seize control, the women remove their veils, speak about their intimate hopes, loves and disappointments, their femininity and their search for a place in an increasingly oppressive society.

Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 4 Nov. 2024