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

Except where prohibited, acceptance of Prize constitutes winner’s consent to Sponsor’s use of winner’s name, likeness, photograph, voice, opinions, biographical information, hometown, and state for promotional purposes in any media without further payment of consideration. —AJC.com, 29 Jan. 2026

Man-at-Arms This Chronicles Man-at-Arms figure celebrates the 2026 live-action Masters of the Universe film with collector-level detail and a movie-accurate design featuring the likeness of Idris Elba. —Gerrad Hall, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Jan. 2026

Candidates would gain new legal tools to combat misuse, including the ability to sue to stop distribution or seek damages if their likeness, voice, or actions are misrepresented. —Dylan Goforth, The Frontier, 28 Jan. 2026

Sources tell us that Equity wants a payout for all actors whose likenesses are used in this way. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 28 Jan. 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