Portrait

Definition

The term "portrait" describes a representation of a person, especially a painting, drawing, photograph, or sculpture, focusing primarily on the face.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɔːr.trɪt/ or /ˈpɔːr.treɪt/
• Respelling: POR-trit or POR-trayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɔː.trɪt/ or /ˈpɔː.treɪt/
• Respelling: PAW-trit or PAW-trayt

Etymology

The word "portrait" originates from the Latin "portrahere," meaning "to draw forth" or "to portray." It entered Middle English through Old French in the 14th century, initially referring to artistic representations.

Derivatives

• Portraiture (noun)
• Portraitist (noun)
• Portrait-like (adjective)
• Portrait painting (noun)
• Self-portrait (noun)

Synonyms

• Representation
• Depiction
• Image

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "portrait" is commonly used in art, photography, and literature. For example: "The gallery features a portrait of the king," or "Her novel provides a vivid portrait of 19th-century society."

Related Terms

• Landscape: A work of art that depicts natural scenery.
• Sculpture: A three-dimensional artistic representation.
• Caricature: An exaggerated representation of a person, often humorous.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A representation of a person in art: Refers to an artistic depiction, often focusing on the face and upper body.
  • Example: "The artist painted a portrait of his daughter."
• A detailed depiction in words: Refers to a descriptive portrayal in literature or speech.
  • Example: "The author crafted a portrait of the protagonist’s personality."