DictionaryrepresentActing on behalf
verb

represent

rep-rih-ZENT/ˌreprɪˈzent/

To stand in place of someone or something.

The miniature model represents the sailing boat behind it.

A miniature wooden model accurately depicts a real sailing boat behind it, representation.
Etymology

The pieces suggest “making present,” with re- perhaps adding emphasis rather than meaning “again.” Showing something or bringing it to mind connects depiction with the broader sense of standing or acting for it.

In context

CTV Santa Cruz County37:05
serving as County Supervisor is a remarkable honor being able to represent the board as chair is an even more distinguished honor
Santa Cruz Board of Supervisors 01/09/2024

More examples

  • Two students represent our class at school council meetings.
  • Each star on the flag represents a state.
  • The painting represents a family gathered around a dinner table.

Forms

represent · represents · represented · representing

representative noun — A person authorized to act for others.

Similar words

symbolize
Means standing for an idea, not acting on someone's behalf.
portray
Emphasizes depicting someone or something, especially in art.
embody
Means expressing a quality through a concrete person or thing.