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

As Vega consulted on the script, it’s widely seen as a groundbreaker of trans portrayals onscreen in the 21st century. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 6 Nov. 2026

Pitt landed a best supporting actor Oscar for his portrayal of Hollywood stunt man Cliff Booth in the 2019 feature and was reportedly keen to keep the character’s story going. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026

Seehorn has appeared in several films and television series but is best known for her portrayal of Kim Wexler on Better Call Saul and starring role as Carol Sturka in Apple TV’s Pluribus, earning an Emmy award for the latter in September 2026. — Francesca Gariano, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2026

Zvyagintsev is not an overtly political filmmaker, but his movies are unsparing in their portrayal of life in contemporary Russia. — Joshua Yaffa, New Yorker, 2 Nov. 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