portray

1 of 1verb

/pɔrˈtreɪ/

Forms:portrays,portraying,portrayed,portrayed

to describe something or someone through words

The author portrays the protagonist as a courageous and determined individual.
In his speech, the politician portrays his opponent as incompetent and untrustworthy.
The media often portrays celebrities as glamorous and flawless, creating unrealistic expectations for their audience.
In the novel, the author portrays the antagonist as a complex character with both redeeming qualities and moral flaws.

Synonyms:

to play the role of a character in a movie, play, etc.

C1transitive

She portrayed the protagonist in the critically acclaimed film, earning praise for her nuanced performance.
He was chosen to portray the iconic historical figure in the epic biopic, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
The actor's ability to portray villains with depth and charisma has made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.
She worked closely with the director to accurately portray the mannerisms and speech patterns of the real-life person she was portraying.

Synonyms:

to depict or represent someone or something in a work of art, literature, or other forms of expression

transitive

In the novel, the author vividly portrayed the struggles of the main character against adversity.
The documentary aims to portray the historical events with accuracy and depth.
The photographer sought to portray the diversity of cultures in a series of captivating images.
The playwright endeavored to portray the complexity of human relationships in the play.
The sculptor skillfully portrayed the strength and grace of the athlete in the marble statue.

Synonyms: