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

In theory, Daniels could sue LSU for misappropriation of his right of publicity, which forbids the unauthorized commercial use of a college athlete’s name, image, likeness, signature, voice, nickname and other identifying traits. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Aug. 2026

But critics argue that many of these ads are purposefully created to be deceptive — especially deepfakes that seek to use someone else’s likeness and put words in their mouth. — Grace Hase, Mercury News, 14 Aug. 2026

Now, police in Ecuador have found his likeness in an unexpected place – printed on green rectangular packages that made up a stunning cocaine shipment seized in a truck near the Colombian border. — CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026

The letter noted that Daniels’ contract permitted LSU to use his name, image and likeness for only 180 days beyond his final game in college. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 13 Aug. 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