portray
UK: pɔːˈtreɪ | US: pɔːrˈtreɪ
vt. to depict or describe someone or something in a work of art or literature
vt. to represent or characterize in a particular way
vt. to act the role of a character in a play or film
portray = por<forward> + tray<draw>
- por<forward>: From Latin por- (a variant of pro-), meaning "forward" or "forth."
- tray<draw>: From Old French traire ("to draw, pull"), derived from Latin trahere ("to pull, draw").
Etymology Origin:
The word "portray" entered English via Old French portraire, which combined Latin pro- (forward) and trahere (to draw). Originally, it referred to the act of "drawing forth" an image, whether literally (as in painting) or figuratively (as in describing). Over time, it expanded to include theatrical representation and symbolic characterization.
The artist sought to portray the beauty of the landscape in her painting.
The novel vividly portrays the struggles of immigrants in the 19th century.
He was chosen to portray the hero in the upcoming film.
Media often portrays politicians in a negative light.
Her speech portrayed a vision of hope for the future.