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

Last year, Watson nabbed the Berlin Silver Bear best supporting performance award for her captivating portrayal of the formidable Mother Superior of the Magdalene Laundries in Tim Mielants’ Small Things Like These. —Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 25 Nov. 2025

Many fans’ reference point is Judy Garland’s iconic portrayal in the 1939 Oscar-winning musical. —Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025

There were no nuanced portrayals of the South Asian diaspora. —The New Yorker, New Yorker, 25 Nov. 2025

His portrayal of Robert, his first main role in a live-action series, earned him five Emmy nominations, including three wins. —Danny Horn, Entertainment Weekly, 24 Nov. 2025

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