What does likeness mean?
A likeness is the appearance or resemblance of one person or thing to another, especially when seen in a face, form, or image. People commonly speak of a portrait having a close or striking likeness to its subject, and the phrase “a likeness of” can introduce a visual representation of someone. The word can also describe a similarity in character or qualities, although this sense is less frequent today. In older and literary English, a likeness may simply mean a portrait, image, or representation. Compared with “resemblance,” “likeness” often places slightly more emphasis on visible appearance, while “similarity” is broader and can refer to qualities, circumstances, or abstract features. The word is useful when discussing how closely an image captures a person’s appearance or when describing a recognizable visual parallel.
nounThe visual appearance or resemblance of someone or something. In older usage, a likeness can also mean a portrait or image representing someone, especially a person who resembles another.
- The visual appearance or resemblance of someone or something.
- An image, portrait, or representation of someone, especially a person or thing that resembles another.
- In older or formal usage, the quality or state of being similar in appearance or character.
"The portrait bears a striking likeness to the artist's younger brother."
"There is a family likeness between the two brothers."
"The painting was accepted as a good likeness of the missing monarch."
The plural is used for separate images, portraits, or instances of resemblance.
"The gallery displays several famous likenesses of British writers."
A likeness can capture an appearance so closely that it seems to preserve the person’s identity in visual form.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of likeness
The word comes from Middle English, formed from the adjective “like” and the suffix “-ness.” Its older sense developed from the general idea of likeness or similarity, and by the 16th century it was also used for a portrait or image representing someone. “Like,” “alike,” “likely,” “liken,” and “likelihood” belong to a related Germanic word family expressing similarity or correspondence.
Related word forms
How likeness is actually used
The word is formal but widely understood. In modern usage, it most often means resemblance; the sense meaning a portrait or representation is somewhat literary or old-fashioned. In religious contexts, “in the likeness of” may refer to appearance or form rather than exact identity.
Easily confused with likeness
Likeness refers to resemblance or visual appearance, whereas likeliness usually refers to probability or the quality of being likely.