depict

[dih-pikt]

verb (used with object)

1. to represent by or as if by painting or other visual image; portray; delineate.

   Synonyms: limn, paint, draw, reproduce

2. to represent or characterize in words; describe.

depict

/ dɪˈpɪkt /

verb

1. to represent by or as by drawing, sculpture, painting, etc; delineate; portray

2. to represent in words; describe

Other Word Forms

• depicter noun
• depictor noun
• depiction noun
• depictive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of depict¹

First recorded in 1625–35; from Latin dēpictus (past participle of dēpingere ), equivalent to dē- de- + pic- past participle stem of pingere “to paint” ( paint ) + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of depict¹

C17: from Latin dēpingere, from pingere to paint

Synonym Study

Depict, portray, sketch imply a representation of an object or scene by colors or lines, or by words. Depict emphasizes vividness of detail: to depict the confusion of departure. Portray emphasizes faithful representation: We could not portray the anguish of the exiles. Sketch suggests the drawing of the outlines of the most prominent features or details, often in a preparatory way: to sketch the plans for a community development.

Example Sentences

The newest version of Sora adds sound effects and dialogue to videos, depicting Olympic gymnastic routines, scuba diving and other activities.

From Los Angeles Times

Alexandrovna herself appears in several photos taken with recruits when they first land in Russia; others depict foreign soldiers after they receive their citizenship, smiling to the camera and proudly showing off their passports.

From Los Angeles Times

But nothing in “The Smashing Machine” gels or compels in the ways that the sport depicted onscreen so often does.

From Salon

It’s a tricky balancing act that Feinartz depicts with candor, grace and patience, never letting the film’s provocative pathos turn overly grim or sentimental.

From Los Angeles Times

Most scenes filmed with a human are seen from the waist down or with the human’s face conveniently obscured, reminiscent of how the “Peanuts” cartoons depict a kid’s perspective of adults.

From Salon

Related Words

• characterize 
• detail 
• illustrate 
• interpret 
• paint 
• portray 
• represent 
• reproduce 
• sketch