portray
|por-tray|
B2
🇺🇸
/pɔrˈtreɪ/
🇬🇧
/pɔːˈtreɪ/
depict or represent
Etymology
Etymology Information
'portray' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'portraire,' where 'por-' meant 'forth' and 'traire' meant 'to draw.'
Historical Evolution
'portraire' transformed into the English word 'portray' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to draw forth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'depict or represent.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to depict or represent someone or something in a work of art or literature.
The artist portrayed the queen in a beautiful painting.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to describe or define someone or something in a particular way.
The book portrays the hero as a flawed but ultimately good person.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39