likeness

[ lahyk-nis ]

noun

1. a representation, picture, or image, especially a portrait:

   to draw a good likeness of Churchill.

2. the state or fact of being like:

   I can't get over your likeness to my friend.

   Synonyms: similitude, resemblance

3. the semblance or appearance of something; guise:

   to assume the likeness of a swan.

   Synonyms: form, shape

likeness

/ ˈlaɪknɪs /

noun

1. the condition of being alike; similarity
2. a painted, carved, moulded, or graphic image of a person or thing
3. an imitative appearance; semblance

Word History and Origins

Origin of likeness¹

before 950; Middle English liknesse, Old English līcnes, variant of gelīcnes. See alike, -ness

Example Sentences

They could also turn to the transfer portal, which has become an increasingly large part of their recruiting strategy thanks to what Cronin described as exponential growth in name, image and likeness funding.

From Los Angeles Times

Amrany said they went to great lengths to get Wade’s likeness correct, having him model for them in person and using computer technology to study photos of the iconic moment they were aiming to capture.

From Los Angeles Times

Tenuous claims on Trump’s abortion positions aside, the group is also using Justice Ginsburg’s name and likeness without permission from her family.

From Salon

They are increasingly powered by so-called deepfake technology, where a realistic computer-generated likeness or video is used to make it seem like the celebrity is backing a product or service.

From BBC

Especially since no edits were made to her co-star's likeness in the fan version.

From Salon

Related Words

• depiction
• effigy
• facsimile
• image
• photograph
• portrait
• replica
• reproduction