represent

The word “represent” means to act or speak on behalf of someone else. In plain terms, to stand in for, speak for, or symbolize something.

“Represent” is pronounced rehp-rih-ZEHNT (/ˌɹɛpɹɪˈzɛnt/ in IPA).

Here is “represent” used in a sentence: “Her lawyer will represent her in court.”

Words with a similar meaning to “represent” include make up.

“Represent” is a verb.

The word “represent” comes from Latin. From Old French representer, from Latin repraesentare, "to present again or bring before" — from re- plus praesentare ("to present").

“Represent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Represent” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to act or speak on behalf of someone else.

To represent someone is to act or speak on their behalf, as a lawyer represents a client or a delegate represents a group. To present means to introduce, show, or offer something directly. The two are easily confused because a representative often presents ideas, but representing centers on standing in for others.

Beyond acting on someone's behalf, 'represent' carries other common senses. It can mean to symbolize or stand for something, as a dove represents peace, or to depict, as a painting represents a landscape. It can also mean to amount to, as in 'this represents a major change.' Context decides which sense applies.

'She was chosen to represent her colleagues at the meeting' shows the core sense, speaking and acting for others. A lawyer represents a defendant in court, and an ambassador represents their country abroad. In each case, one person is authorized to stand in for others and voice their interests.