portrait
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpɔːrtrɪt/
KK: /ˈpɔrtrɪt/
adjective
Definition
This term describes a page or document that is taller than it is wide, meaning the longer side is vertical.
Example
The artist chose a portrait layout for the painting to emphasize the subject's height.
Conversation
Have you seen the new photo I took of the skyline?
No, I haven't! Was it in a portrait orientation?
Yeah, it turned out really nice and showed the buildings perfectly.
That sounds great! I love when photos capture the view like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vertical
upright
longitudinal
Antonyms
horizontal
landscape
flat
noun
Definition
A picture or image of a person, usually showing their face, made by an artist or photographer.
Example
The artist painted a beautiful portrait of her grandmother.
Conversation
I just finished a new portrait of my sister.
That sounds great! What did you focus on in her likeness?
I tried to capture her smile and the way her eyes sparkle.
Root Explanation
Portrait → It is formed from "portrayer" (from Old French *portraire*, meaning to draw or represent) and "-ait" (a suffix used in nouns). The word "portrait" refers to a representation or likeness of a person, typically in art.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'drawing' or 'representing' a person — that's what a portrait is, a visual representation of someone.
Visually Confused Words
unportraited
autoportrait