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

Example 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

The decision amounted to a sweeping cloak of impunity for Trump supporters who upended the country’s tradition of peaceful transfers of power by trying to overturn his election defeat four years ago. —

Michelle Price, Twin Cities, 20 Jan. 2025 The yellow of the cloak references the color of the flag of Vatican City. —

Virginia Raguin, The Conversation, 21 Jan. 2025

Verb

The case has been cloaked in secrecy, but at a trial beginning Wednesday, prosecutors are expected to reveal how murders were plotted from behind prison walls. —

Matthew Ormseth, Los Angeles Times, 15 Jan. 2025 Trump also makes clear his intent to apply painful public and government pressure on private-sector DEI practices as well, and does not cloak his reasons. —

The Editors, National Review, 23 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for cloak

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cloak

Noun

The sun, for all its glitz, tends to hide behind a veil of mystery.

— Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 5 Feb. 2025
Favoring minimal-to-no jewelry pieces, Anderson accessorized with a thick black headband attached to a black birdcage veil.

— Julia Teti, WWD, 27 Jan. 2025