Definition of portray

The word "portray" is derived from the Old French word "traire," which means "to draw" or "to pull out." In Middle English, the word "traiten" emerged, which also means "to draw" or "to describe in detail." This word eventually evolved into the modern English word "trait," which describes a distinctive characteristic or quality. The word "portray" itself can be traced back to the 15th century, and it originally referred specifically to the depiction of a person's likeness or physical appearance in art. In the 16th century, the meaning of the word broadened to include the depiction of a person's character or personality as well. The prefix "port-" in "portray" is derived from the Old French word "porter," which means "to carry" or "to bring." This prefix likely reflects the idea of bringing a person's likeness or characteristics to life in a work of art or literature. Today, the word "portray" is commonly used to describe the act of depicting someone or something in a visual or literary work, whether in art, theater, film, television, or literature. It can refer to both fictional and non-fictional portrayals, as well as positive or negative depictions.