portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
Synonyms of portrayalnext
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
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Since the 1990s the union has campaigned against discrimination and negative portrayals of minority groups in the media while also promoting workplace equality within the journalism industry itself. Idir Ouahes, Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 May 2026 Ezura and Taylor founded The Crib Sheet in order to create more exposure for the work of parent writers and to broaden the portrayal of parents and families in the entertainment industry. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 20 May 2026 The book is one of the funnier portrayals of a writing program. David O’Neill, New Yorker, 20 May 2026 While these events in the episode may not be considered serious by Hollywood, given Hollywood's many historically inaccurate portrayals of shows, movies, and characters, South Korean audiences take them seriously, especially when the series stars two of Korea's biggest actors. Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026 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 28 May. 2026.

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

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