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

Skaters can get their face painted to match the likeness of their favorite princess or superhero. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 29 Oct. 2026

His responsibilities will also include revenue sharing and partnerships that allow athletes to earn money from their name, image and likeness, according to the university. — Christopher Harris, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026

And, of course, there was an emotional impetus behind the choice to immortalize a pet in art—portraits preserved a dog’s likeness long after their too-short lives were over. — Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2026

Gellar's followers on Instagram were quick to note Rocky's likeness to his dad. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 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