1.
mask; face covering
A covering worn over the face to hide one's identity. Used for masks worn by robbers, wrestlers, or in other contexts where concealment is the purpose.
犯人は覆面をしていた。
The criminal was wearing a mask.
覆面レスラーが試合に登場した。
A masked wrestler appeared in the match.
銀行強盗は黒い覆面で顔を隠していた。
The bank robber hid his face with a black mask.
2.
anonymity; incognito; undercover
Acting or appearing under a concealed identity. Used figuratively for anonymous or undercover activities.
覆面パトカーに捕まった。
I got caught by an unmarked police car.
あの店は覆面調査員にチェックされた。
That shop was checked by a secret shopper.
有名な作家が覆面で別のペンネームを使って小説を発表していた。
A famous author had been publishing novels anonymously under a different pen name.
USAGE:
Often used as a modifier before another noun to mean "undercover" or "anonymous." Common compounds include 覆面パトカー (unmarked police car) and 覆面調査 (mystery shopping / undercover investigation).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 覆面をする (wear a mask)
- 覆面パトカー (unmarked police car)
- 覆面調査 (undercover investigation)
- 覆面レスラー (masked wrestler)
- 覆面座談会 (anonymous roundtable)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- マスク: mask — everyday face mask, typically for health or hygiene
- 仮面: mask — a theatrical or decorative mask, also used figuratively for a false front
- 匿名: anonymity — specifically about names, not physical disguise