portrayal

noun

por·​tray·​al pȯr-ˈtrā(-ə)l How to pronounce portrayal (audio)
pər-
Synonyms of portrayalnext
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
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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.
This portrayal does not reflect the clinical reality for most patients. — Krutika Kuppalli, STAT, 26 June 2026 But, as Sotomayor’s dissent made clear, the case was nowhere near as easy as Alito’s portrayal suggested. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 26 June 2026 Her portrayal of social customs appears almost fantastical in light of the transformation undergone by her protagonist. — Literary Hub, 1 July 2026 The president’s portrayal of the situation is problematic. — Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 28 June 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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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 7 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on portrayal

Nglish: Translation of portrayal for Spanish Speakers

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