/ ˌreprɪzenˈteɪʃn; NAmE / noun
1.
[ U , C ] the act of presenting sb/sth in a particular way; something that shows or describes sth
SYN portrayal :
the negative representation of single mothers in the media
The snake swallowing its tail is a representation of infinity.
2.
[ U ] the fact of having representatives who will speak or vote for you or on your behalf :
The green movement lacks effective representation in Parliament.
The accused was not allowed legal representation.
—see also proportional representation
3.
representations [ pl. ] ( formal , especially BrE ) formal statements made to sb in authority, especially in order to make your opinions known or to protest :
We have made representations to the prime minister, but without success.
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English (in the sense image, likeness ): from Old French representation or Latin repraesentatio(n-) , from repraesentare bring before, exhibit, from re- (expressing intensive force) + praesentare to present.