Mascara is a cosmetic product that is commonly used to enhance the upper and lower eyelashes. It is used to darken, thicken, lengthen, and/or define the eyelashes. Mascara comes in three forms: liquid, powder, or cream. The Collins English Dictionary defines mascara as "a cosmetic substance for darkening, lengthening, curling, coloring, and thickening the eyelashes, applied with a brush or rod". The name "mascara" may have been derived from the Spanish word "máscara" meaning mask or stain, the Italian word "maschera" meaning mask, or the Arabic word "maskharah" meaning buffoon. Mascara is occasionally used on the eyebrows as well.

There is a recent trend on TikTok where the word "mascara" is used as a coded way for people to talk about their past and present romantic relationships. In this context, "mascara" refers to someones romantic partner. The hashtag #mascaratrend is used to discuss relationships in a roundabout way.