portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
Synonyms of portrayal
1
: the act or process or an instance of portraying : representation
2
: portrait

Synonyms of portrayal

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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.
His vocal portrayal of Captain Hook in Peter Pan and the Pirates (1991) won him a daytime Emmy. — Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 26 Aug. 2026 His portrayal of Pennywise horrified a generation of children—without relying heavily on special effects or prosthetics. — Rebecca Schneid, Time, 26 Aug. 2026 The portrayal would forever send It to the top of lists for King’s best TV projects, rivaled only by the earlier Salem’s Lot. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 26 Aug. 2026 The author specifically praised Reficco over her thorough research on epilepsy in an effort to offer an authentic portrayal. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for portrayal

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Browse Nearby Words

portray
portrayal
portrayer
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Cite this Entry

“Portrayal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/portrayal. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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
: portrait sense 1
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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