disfrazar
“disfrazar” means “to dress up” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to dress up
Also: to disguise
📝 In Action
Voy a disfrazar a mi perro de dinosaurio.
A1I am going to dress up my dog as a dinosaur.
Ellos disfrazaron la entrada de la casa para la fiesta.
B1They decorated/disguised the house entrance for the party.
Es difícil disfrazar a un bebé inquieto.
A2It is difficult to dress up a wiggly baby in a costume.
to hide / conceal
Also: to sugarcoat
📝 In Action
No intentes disfrazar la verdad con palabras bonitas.
B2Don't try to hide the truth with pretty words.
Disfrazó su nerviosismo con una risa fuerte.
C1He concealed his nervousness with a loud laugh.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: disfrazar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I dressed up' (Past Tense)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Probably from a combination of the prefix 'dis-' (reversal or removal) and the old Spanish word 'freza' (track/trail), originally meaning to change one's trail or path to avoid being followed.
First recorded: 15th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'disfrazar' and 'disfrazarse'?
'Disfrazar' is used when you put a costume on someone else (like a child or a pet). 'Disfrazarse' is reflexive, meaning you are putting a costume on yourself.
Does 'disfrazar' only apply to Halloween?
No! It is used for Carnival, costume parties, theater, or even metaphorically when someone is being fake.
Can I use 'disfrazar' for a crime disguise?
Yes, it is perfectly appropriate for any situation where someone is trying to hide their identity.