portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pər-

1

: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation

2

: portrait

Synonyms of portrayal

• depiction
• description
• portrait
• picture

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

The author’s portrayal of Gen-Z college students in The Radiance is too familiar. — Britina Cheng, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2026

Gosling is in the conversation for Best Actor for his portrayal of a scientist marooned alone on a spacecraft, as are Sandra Hüller and James Ortiz, who plays the sage extraterrestrial Rocky. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 30 Sep. 2026

These two novels are just a sampling of recent portrayals of this surreal land of limbo, but there are many more. — Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026

The new thriller is earning critical acclaim for its compelling depiction of the controversial NBC series To Catch a Predator, as well as Robert Pattinson’s riveting portrayal of host Chris Hansen. — Britt Hayes, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

portray + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for portrayal

• betrayal

Kids Definition

portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pȯr-

1

: the act or process of portraying : representation

2

: portrait sense 1