portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pər-

1

: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation

2

: portrait

Synonyms

• definition
• delineation
• depiction
• description
• picture
• portrait
• portraiture
• rendering
• sketch
• vignette

Examples of portrayal in a Sentence

his novel presents a moving portrayal of a woman searching for personal fulfillment and happiness

Recent Examples on the Web

Watch on Hulu The Dropout Amanda Seyfried won a much deserved Outstanding Lead Actress Emmy for her portrayal of the notorious Stanford dropout turned health care technology maven Elizabeth Holmes, who tricked some of the world’s savviest business minds into investing in her company, Theranos. —Jennifer M. Wood, WIRED, 5 Nov. 2024

The actress has continued to return to the show for special appearances, maintaining continuity in the portrayal of the vice president throughout significant political moments. —David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024

Stewart also took issue with her portrayal in the documentary, particularly footage Cutler used of her at her Bedford, N.Y. estate toward the end of the film. —Erin Clements, People.com, 30 Oct. 2024

Grant’s portrayal as Mr. Reed is quite arguably the most captivating performance seen on film this year. —Jeff Conway, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

portray + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pȯr-

1

: the act or process of portraying : representation

2

: portrait sense 1