Definition of masquerades:
(n) :
An assembly or party of people wearing (usually elaborate or fanciful) masks and costumes, and amusing themselves with dancing, conversation, or other diversions.
(n) :
The act of wearing a mask or dressing up in a costume for, or as if for, a masquerade ball.
(n) :
(figuratively) An act of living under false pretenses; a concealment of something by a false or unreal show; a disguise, a pretence; also, a pretentious display.
(v) :
(intransitive) To take part in a masquerade; to assemble in masks and costumes; (loosely) to wear a disguise.
(v) :
(intransitive, figuratively) To pass off as a different person or a person with qualities that one does not possess; also, to make a pretentious show of being what one is not.
(n) :
(fandom slang) A cosplay event at which costumed attendees perform skits.