Emily Dickinson Lexicon

MAS-QUER-ADE, n. [It. mascherata. See Mask.]

1. A nocturnal assembly of persons wearing masks, and amusing themselves with dancing, conversation and other diversions. In courtly balls and midnight masquerades. Pope.
2. Disguise. I came to visit thee in masquerade. Dryden.
3. A Spanish diversion on horseback. Clarendon.