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

Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Dylan earned him a nod for Best Male Actor, alongside supporting nominations for Edward Norton and Monica Barbaro. —Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025

Pop-Culture Travel Trends Pop-culture phenomena are influencing travel trends, with destinations gaining buzz from their portrayal in television shows, movies, and on social media. —Caroline Tell, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025

Strong was nominated for best performance by a male actor in a supporting role for his portrayal of Roy Cohn in The Apprentice. —Catherine Santino, People.com, 6 Jan. 2025

He is nominated in the best actor in a drama category for his portrayal of a young Donald Trump in the film. —Angelique Jackson, Variety, 6 Jan. 2025

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