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

However, this is a bit different considering his estate was involved in this recreation of Tupac's likeness. —Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026

The show partnered with the Province of Canada to release an official fleece in the likeness of Shane's fan-favorite apparel on season 2. —Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 5 June 2026

The Big Ten has won three consecutive National Championships, starting, coincidentally, when name, image and likeness rules were changed allowing college football players to get paid by outside collectives. —Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026

The State Department is issuing passports with the president's picture and officials have designed a new $250 bill with his likeness. —ABC News, 3 June 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