As a Noun: 1. Substances such as lipstick, powder, eye-shadow, and mascara, which people use to make themselves look more attractive, or which actors use when they are acting. English = make-up, cosmetics. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To apply lipstick, powder, eye-shadow, and mascara in order to make yourself look more attractive or as part of the preparation for acting on the stage or before cameras. English = apply make up, get made up, put on cosmetics.