A thick, oily makeup used by actors and performers that doesn't wash off easily with water.
From 'grease' + 'paint'; this theatrical makeup emerged in the 19th century, combining oil or grease with pigments to create a durable, water-resistant cosmetic that would survive stage lights and remain visible from the audience.
Before modern makeup, actors relied on greasepaint because it was bright, durable, and wouldn't run under hot stage lights or sweat—it was so important that learning to apply greasepaint was a core skill taught to every theater performer, and the smell became legendary in theatrical circles.
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