likeness

noun

like·​ness ˈlīk-nəs 

1

: copy, portrait

2

: appearance, semblance

3

: the quality or state of being like : resemblance

Synonyms of likeness

• image
• depiction
• portrait
• illustration
• picture

Choose the Right Synonym for likeness

likeness, similarity, resemblance, similitude, analogy mean agreement or correspondence in details.

likeness implies a closer correspondence than similarity which often implies that things are merely somewhat alike.

a remarkable likeness to his late father

some similarity between the two cases

resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

Examples of likeness in a Sentence

a stamp bearing the likeness of a president

There's some likeness between them.

There's an uncanny likeness between them.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some San Benito residents have called for Crockett’s likeness to be painted alongside Fender on the Rio Grande Valley’s landmark water tower. —Mars Salazar, Austin American Statesman, 2 Apr. 2026

UConn held its practice Wednesday afternoon at the Phoenix’s Mercury’s practice facility, where the hardwood is named the Diana Taurasi Court and bears a logo of her likeness wearing her jersey number 3. —Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 2 Apr. 2026

The proposal is the latest in a broader push by the president and his allies to put his name or likeness on public landmarks and other entities. —Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026

Prediction markets and name, image and likeness (NIL) agreements. —Robert L. Boone, Sportico.com, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing likeness

• a good likeness

Rhymes for likeness

• unlikeness

Kids Definition

likeness

noun

like·​ness ˈlīk-nəs 

1

: a picture especially of a person : portrait

2

: the quality or state of being like : resemblance