portrayal

[pawr-trey-uhl, pohr-]

noun

1. the act of portraying.

2. a portrait.

Other Word Forms

• misportrayal noun
• nonportrayal noun
• preportrayal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of portrayal¹

First recorded in 1840–50; portray + -al ²

Example Sentences

However, the government has criticised their portrayal as aimed at tarnishing the country's image, insisting the country is safe.

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The stars’ portrayal of a loving father-daughter relationship is one of the show’s major touchstones.

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Hauke notes that this portrayal departs significantly from the diversity of roles described in Old Norse sources.

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Fan delivered what some critics hailed as a breakthrough performance with her portrayal of a widowed farmer and ritual healer in "Mother Bhumi", a far cry from her usual glamorous roles.

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The prestigious National Society of Film Critics named Jordan best actor for his portrayal of boxer Adonis Creed in “Creed,” Coogler’s expansion of the “Rocky” franchise.

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Related Words

• description 
• imitation 
• portrait 
• representation