as in depiction
a vivid representation in words of someone or something
his novel presents a moving portrayal of a woman searching for personal fulfillment and happiness
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Recent Examples of portrayal
Unlike the often-dystopian portrayals of AI, Mosscap embodies collaboration and humility, offering a refreshing perspective that invites us to rethink our relationship with technology.
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The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024
Both a hilarious skewering of bridal culture and a poignant portrayal of friendship, Bridesmaids is star Kristen Wiig’s finest (and funniest) work.
—Elise Taylor, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024
The book series, noted for its characters and mysteries as well as its authentic portrayal of ordinary Venetian life, has grown to 33 tomes (and counting) over the past 32 years, most recently A Refiner’s Fire, released earlier this year.
—Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 12 Dec. 2024
Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba — who eventually becomes the Wizard of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West — was recognized in best actress, as was Ariana Grande in Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of the peppy and morally quandering Glinda.
—Mathew Rodriguez, Them, 12 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for portrayal 
The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024
Both a hilarious skewering of bridal culture and a poignant portrayal of friendship, Bridesmaids is star Kristen Wiig’s finest (and funniest) work.
—Elise Taylor, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024
The book series, noted for its characters and mysteries as well as its authentic portrayal of ordinary Venetian life, has grown to 33 tomes (and counting) over the past 32 years, most recently A Refiner’s Fire, released earlier this year.
—Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 12 Dec. 2024
Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba — who eventually becomes the Wizard of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West — was recognized in best actress, as was Ariana Grande in Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of the peppy and morally quandering Glinda.
—Mathew Rodriguez, Them, 12 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for portrayal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for portrayal
Noun
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The first time around, the series was hailed as a brutal critique of economic exploitation and capitalist society thanks to its depiction of the contestants’ backstories, as well as its focus on how the economically downtrodden are treated by others regardless of the reason for their circumstances.Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 24 Dec. 2024
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Over the years, its hilariously relatable depiction of Yuletide chaos has made Christmas Vacation a beloved holiday staple.John Russell, People.com, 23 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Both descriptions are consistent with Grossman’s reputation as a brash, savvy negotiator.Gabe Cohn, New York Times, 25 Dec. 2024
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Unfortunately, the United States fits that description.Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024
Noun
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The federal government issued $2 currency notes beginning in 1862, which first had a portrait of Alexander Hamilton on the cover.John Tufts, The Courier-Journal, 16 Dec. 2024
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The portraits Joseph took for the agency captured the dignity of the women at work on SS George Washington Carver, exactly what the propaganda agency wanted to show.April White, JSTOR Daily, 16 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Winners and losers: The Vikings currently stand as the NFC's top wild-card seed, but Minnesota could make a major leap in the playoff picture in the next two weeks.Jim Reineking, USA TODAY, 24 Dec. 2024
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What’s still at stake in AFC? NFL playoff picture: Ravens are in.Armstrong Williams, Baltimore Sun, 24 Dec. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/portrayal. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
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