depiction

[dih-pik-shuhn]

noun

1. representation in image form, as in a painting or illustration.

   Picasso's painting Guernica is an accurate depiction of the horrors of war.

2. representation or characterization in words.

   Mark Twain's letters are a clear depiction of his life and times.

3. an act or instance of depicting.

Word History and Origins

Origin of depiction¹

First recorded in 1625–35; from Latin dēpictiōn-, stem of dēpictiō “portrayal,” equivalent to dēpict(us), past participle of dēpingere “to portray” + -iō -ion ( def. )

Example Sentences

Amid the film’s self-conscious depiction of a brewing tempest, he remains a true force of nature.

From Los Angeles Times

In interviews and emails with The Times, parents said administrators called some of the wording in the scripts and depictions of characters culturally insensitive.

From Los Angeles Times

Over the years, the animated series has depicted conservatives and liberals alike, leaving almost no public figure, politician or activist shielded from critique or crude depiction.

From Los Angeles Times

Yates cautioned that “streamers’ depictions of events are often false or misleading, so we must promote accurate and complete information — without engaging these disinformation spreaders or platforming their content.”

From Salon

Audiences were instantly drawn in to the show's bracing depiction of a teenage boy who is accused of stabbing a female classmate.

From BBC

Related Words

• drawing 
• illustration 
• image 
• likeness 
• picture 
• portrayal 
• representation 
• sketch