representation
noun
rep·re·sen·ta·tion
ˌre-pri-ˌzen-ˈtā-shən
-zən-
plural representations
1
: someone or something that represents: such as
a
: an artistic likeness or image
stylized representations of flowers
The women then embroider their portraits in any way they choose, taking agency over their ultimate representation …—Charleston Regional Business Journal
b(1)
: a statement or account made to influence opinion or action
Her representation of the situation was very confusing.
(2)
: an incidental or collateral statement of fact on the faith of which a contract is entered into
a contract that contained certain representations by the seller
c
: a dramatic production or performance
a theatrical representation
d(1)
: a usually formal statement made against something or to effect a change
(2)
: a usually formal protest
2
: the act or action of representing : the state of being represented: such as
b(1)
: the action or fact of one person standing for another so as to have the rights and obligations of the person represented
(2)
: the substitution of an individual or class in place of a person (such as a child for a deceased parent)
c(1)
: the action of representing or the fact of being represented in a grouping, aggregation, or body (especially a legislative body)
The state is divided into legislative districts, with each district electing one senator. This system fosters representation from various regions of the state …—Manahil Ahmad
(2)
: the participation of people from groups who have historically been excluded or discriminated against (as due to race, gender, sexuality, or ability)
Although public libraries are no longer segregated by law, there is still a major gap in African Americans' representation in the library profession.—Terry B. Hill
also
: the inclusion of characters, perspectives, etc. from such groups
So, one of my passions, especially in the entertainment industry, is to create more authentic disability representation, because we don't usually see it in mainstream media. —Maddy Ulman, quoted in The Dallas Morning News
d
: the action of presenting or describing a person or thing especially in a particular way
We discussed the representation of women in Jane Austen's novels.
3
: the body of persons representing a constituency
representationally
adverb
Cite this Entry
“Representation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/representation. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.
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