/ pɔːˈtreɪ; NAmE pɔːrˈt-/ verb [ vn ]
1.
to show sb/sth in a picture; to describe sb/sth in a piece of writing
SYN depict
2.
portray sb/sth (as sb/sth) to describe or show sb/sth in a particular way, especially when this does not give a complete or accurate impression of what they are like
SYN represent :
Throughout the trial, he portrayed himself as the victim.
3.
to act a particular role in a film / movie or play
SYN play :
Her father will be portrayed by Sean Connery.
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WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French portraire , based on traire to draw, from an alteration of Latin trahere .