portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
Synonyms of portrayalnext
1
: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation
2

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
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At this point, there is no claim that any animal suffered injury, and much of the public reaction has been driven by incomplete or misleading portrayals online. Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026 However, contrary to many portrayals, your skin wouldn't burst right away. Alan Bradley, Space.com, 8 May 2026 As the federal health department launches a plan to wean patients off antidepressants, mental health advocates and psychiatrists say blaming the United States' mental health crisis on overmedicalization and overprescription of psychiatric medications is an inaccurate portrayal of a complex problem. Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 7 May 2026 Since its debut, Rafael Amaya’s portrayal of Aurelio Casillas has become one of the most recognizable in Spanish-language television, anchoring a franchise that has captivated audiences for nearly a decade. Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for portrayal

Word History

Etymology

portray + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of portrayal was in 1843

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Cite this Entry

“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portrayal. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

portrayal

noun
por·​tray·​al pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pȯr-
1
: the act or process of portraying : representation
2

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