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.
Wendt became a household name for his portrayal of Norm and went on to become a six-time Emmy nominee over the course of the show's run. Esther Kang, People.com, 20 May 2025 Without a doubt, there is controversy surrounding the portrayal of Black women on reality television. Ime Ekpo, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 And your portrayal evoked quite contradictory emotions. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2025 The film is a poignant portrayal of the sport as a positive force for wrestlers facing challenges like homelessness, language barriers and academic struggles. Corey Kilgannon, New York Times, 17 May 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portrayal. Accessed 23 May. 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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