portrayal
noun
por·tray·al
pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l 
pər-
1
: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation
2
: portrait
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
In the Supporting categories, actress Wunmi Mosaku and actor Delroy Lindo have been nominated for their scene-stealing portrayals of Annie and Delta Slim, continuing the trend of firsts for this talented team and cast.
—
Sabrina Reed, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Jordan, who many feel had his magnum opus with this portrayal of the twins, left without an acting trophy in both ceremonies; a familiar pattern for actors of color.
—Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Jan. 2026
So did Paul Mescal, previously considered a lock, in best supporting actor for his portrayal of a gruff William Shakespeare.
—Radhika Seth, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2026
His portrayal of the world-weary Mississippi bluesman Delta Slim was central to the movie’s exploration of life in the Jim Crow South and included a powerful monologue that told the story of the lynching of a fellow musician.
—Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for portrayal
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Sabrina Reed, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Jordan, who many feel had his magnum opus with this portrayal of the twins, left without an acting trophy in both ceremonies; a familiar pattern for actors of color.
—Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Jan. 2026
So did Paul Mescal, previously considered a lock, in best supporting actor for his portrayal of a gruff William Shakespeare.
—Radhika Seth, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2026
His portrayal of the world-weary Mississippi bluesman Delta Slim was central to the movie’s exploration of life in the Jim Crow South and included a powerful monologue that told the story of the lynching of a fellow musician.
—Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for portrayal
Cite this Entry
“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portrayal. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
portrayal
noun
por·tray·al
pōr-ˈtrā(-ə)l
pȯr-
1
: the act or process of portraying : representation
2
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