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

Also missing from the film are portrayals of Jackson’s daughter, Paris, and his siblings Rebbie, Randy and Janet, who apparently weren’t happy with many of the scenes. —Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026

The gangland drama is deeper and darker than the domestic one, strengthened by the unexpected portrayal of the Russian toughs as bumbling in their own way. —Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 24 Apr. 2026

His portrayal of Scottish Tourette syndrome activist John Davidson is a truly stunning turn, but ironically, the events of that evening also proved why the film is so necessary right now. —Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026

Such could also be said of May Heinecke for her nuanced portrayal of the most introverted sister, Beth, and Audrey Parker as the explosively ebullient youngest, Amy. —Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 24 Apr. 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