rep·re·sent
ˌre-pri-ˈzent
represented; representing; represents
1
: to give a clear understanding or impression of : to describe or present clearly
a book which represents the character of early America
also
: to describe or present in a specified way or as having a specified quality or character
… should we continue to teach classic books that may be problematic, or eschew them in favor of works that more positively represent people of color? —Tiara Jenkins
… asking her to address the claim that she falsely represented herself as an architect … —Jodi S. Cohen and Stacy St. Clair
2
: to serve as a sign or symbol of
the flag represents our country
3
: to portray or exhibit in art : depict
… would often draw colorful illustrations representing each calendar month …—Charles Owens
4
: to serve as the counterpart or image of : typify
a movie hero who represents the ideals of the culture
5
theater
a
: to produce on the stage
b
: to act the part or role of
6
a(1)
: to take the place of in some respect
He was represented by family members at the memorial service.
(2)
: to act in the place of or for usually by legal right
She represented the company in the negotiations.
(3)
: to manage the legal and business affairs of
athletes represented by top lawyers and agents
b
: to serve especially in a legislative body by delegated authority usually resulting from election
The Senator represents the state of Connecticut.
c
: to include (people, perspectives, etc.) from a given group, especially one that has historically been excluded or discriminated against (as due to race, gender, sexuality, or ability)
—often used in passive constructions
Women of all races are less represented in leadership roles, but women of color face double hurdles of sexism and racism.—Shelley Stewart III et al.
Taking point of view, experience, race and gender under consideration, the foundation strives to ensure that all voices are represented, said [Dawn] Padmore …—Parker Milner
d
: to present oneself as and show pride in being a member of (a culture, race, etc., especially one that was historically excluded or discriminated against)
I admire that there are folks, especially in media, as well as film, that are representing their Blackness and embracing it …—Sunny Hostin, quoted at People (online)
"Sharon is bisexual! So glad there is someone representing the LGBTQ community," one [unidentified] fan tweeted …—Zoe Delaney
When you're singing the anthems, it's personal. I represent America. I represent Puerto Rico. I represent the culture, I represent where I was born …—Ana Garcia, quoted in Record-Journal (Meriden, Connecticut)
7
a
: to give one's impression and judgment of : state in a manner intended to affect action or judgment
b
: to point out in protest or remonstrance
8
: to serve as a specimen, example, or instance of
9
a
: to form an image or representation of in the mind
b(1)
: to apprehend (an object) by means of an idea
(2)
: to recall in memory
10
: to correspond to in essence : constitute
1
: to make representations against something : protest
2
slang
: to perform a task or duty admirably : serve as an outstanding example
representer
noun
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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