depiction

noun

de·​pic·​tion di-ˈpik-shən 

dē-

plural depictions

: a representation in words or images of someone or something

The book is fascinating in its depiction of the country's early history.

The first part of the book … is a depiction of the nearly lost world of a North American hunter-gatherer community.

—Timothy Egan

The late Vermont artist Stephen Huneck made works that are instantly recognizable—bright, accessible, folky depictions of dogs enjoying themselves.

—James Heflin

By comparison with the depiction of domesticity in such 1950s staples as The Donna Reed Show and Ozzie and Harriet, the portrait of family life on The Dick Van Dyke Show, the emblematic sitcom of the early 1960s, seemed staggering in its sheer smartness and casual elegance.

—Bruce Bawer

Synonyms of depiction

• description
• portrait
• portrayal
• picture

Examples of depiction in a Sentence

the set piece of the novel is a depiction of the battle that makes readers feel like they were there

Recent Examples on the Web

But Smith’s energy goes toward perfecting the Damon Albarn impression in its silly hook rather than galvanizing the otherwise lackluster depictions of friendship in his lyrics. — Victoria Borlando, Pitchfork, 24 July 2026

Over a video call, Kelly shared her thoughts on Quinn’s journey in Season 2, her hopes for the next chapter in the Quinten saga and the actor currently earning her praise with his impressive depiction of a psychedelic trip. — Maira Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 24 July 2026

The tree, under Gonzalez’s depiction, contains visuals that speak to his own experience and what the library represents, Lerew said. — Paris Barraza, USA Today, 24 July 2026

Farris' depictions – drawn in a loose, minimal style with a bright, colorful palette – offer generalities that seem relatable for those who have attended med school. — Tahneer Oksman, NPR, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1688, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for depiction

• addiction
• affliction
• constriction
• conviction
• eviction
• infliction
• nonfiction
• prediction
• restriction
• antifriction
• benediction
• contradiction