face mask

noun

1. a mask or protective covering for the face or part of the face
2. a covering (as of polypropylene fiber or cotton fabric) for the mouth and nose that is worn especially to reduce the spread of infectious agents (such as viruses or bacteria)
3. a device usually covering the mouth and nose to facilitate delivery of a gas (such as a general anesthetic)
4. a covering typically attaching to the front of a helmet that consists of a hard, clear material (such as polycarbonate) or a cage of metal (such as steel or a titanium alloy) and is worn to protect the wearer's face from injury
5. or face mask penalty (American football): a penalty imposed on a player for grabbing and pulling an opponent's face mask during play