portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Related Stories Khan and Kajol’s portrayals of the iconic couple have become one of the definitive cinematic representations of love in Indian cinema, maintaining their status as a pop culture touchstone for South Asians worldwide. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 Oct. 2025 Both Erivo and Glinda were nominated for Oscars for their portrayal of the beloved witches, as the original 2024 film earned a total of 10 Academy Award noms and two wins. Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2025 The actor, who made waves in 1975 for his portrayal of trans alien scientist Frank-N-Furter, has opened up about his mom Patricia Curry's reactions to his fame. Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Oct. 2025 Before Friday, Jackson had already won five Daytime Emmys over the years for his portrayal of Lucky. Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025 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 24 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on portrayal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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