portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pər-

1

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

2

: portrait

Synonyms

• definition
• delineation
• depiction
• description
• picture
• portrait
• portraiture
• rendering
• sketch
• vignette

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

Daniel Radcliffe and his Harry Potter costars are remembering Maggie Smith, and honoring her magical portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the blockbuster franchise. —Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 27 Sep. 2024

There are jugs that aim for a realistic portrayal of a figure and jugs of Prince Charles that look like Dumbo. —Christopher Borrelli, Chicago Tribune, 27 Sep. 2024

That’s a testament to how much is conveyed through action, atmosphere and Nyong’o’s warmly naïve vocal portrayal. —Michael Ordoña, Los Angeles Times, 26 Sep. 2024

Burstein has appeared in 19 Broadway shows and received a Tony Award for his portrayal of Harold Zidler in Moulin Rouge. —Caitlin Huston, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

portray + -al entry 2

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 

pȯr-

1

: the act or process of portraying : representation

2

: portrait sense 1