1. to describe or represent someone or something in a particular way
2. to play the role of a character in a movie, play, or other performance
3. to make a picture or painting of someone or something

Examples

• The documentary portrays life in rural America.
• She portrays the villain in the new superhero movie.
• The artist portrays children playing in the park.
• The book portrays him as a hero, but others disagree.
• He portrays Shakespeare’s Hamlet with great skill.
• The painting portrays a peaceful countryside scene.
• The media often portrays teenagers negatively.