portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
1
: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation
2

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rather than leaning in realistic Marvel Cinematic Universe portrayals, or even the classic comic roots, ArcSys has brought a more Japanese sensibility to the design of its world and characters. Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 9 Sep. 2025 He has already been tipped for an Oscar for his portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster in Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of the Mary Shelley horror classic which debuts on Netflix next month. Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 The complex portrayal wasn’t that far from Göring, who was the guy behind the guy atop the Nazi hierarchy who on the surface was a charming narcissist reputed to be a great dinner party guest, but was at heart a cunningly manipulative villain. Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 8 Sep. 2025 By linking the campaign to sovereignty, Maduro is seeking to rally domestic support and push back against Washington's portrayal of his government as complicit in the drug trade. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for portrayal

Word History

Etymology

portray + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of portrayal was in 1843

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Cite this Entry

“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portrayal. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

portrayal

noun
por·​tray·​al pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pȯr-
1
: the act or process of portraying : representation
2

More from Merriam-Webster on portrayal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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