Personages Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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personages

[ˈpɜːsənɪdʒɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in literature

Characters in a play, novel, or movie, especially when particularly well-developed and portrayed.

Synonyms

characters, figures, individuals.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
personages

Used mostly in literary or historical contexts to describe significant or notable people. It has a formal tone.

  • The novel is filled with memorable personages from the Victorian era.
  • The museum exhibit features personages from ancient Greek mythology.
characters

Commonly used in literature, movies, theater, and television to describe fictional or real people. It can also refer to someone's personality traits.

  • Harry Potter and Hermione Granger are central characters in J.K. Rowling's series.
  • He has always been known as a character with a great sense of humor.
figures

Often used in an abstract or formal context to refer to important people, statistics, or symbols. It can also refer to shapes or forms in art.

  • Albert Einstein remains a towering figure in the world of science.
  • The dancer's graceful figure moved effortlessly across the stage.
individuals

A general term used to refer to persons without emphasizing their significance or roles. It focuses on the uniqueness of each person.

  • Every individual has the right to express their opinions.
  • The study examined how different individuals react to stress.

Examples of usage

  • The novel is full of memorable personages.
  • The personages in the film were expertly brought to life.
Context #2 | Noun

in historical context

Important or influential individuals in history.

Synonyms

figures, icons, personalities.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
personages

Often used in formal or literary contexts to refer to important or prominent characters in a book, play, or historical event.

  • The novel features several intriguing personages that drive the plot forward.
  • In the play, the personages are deeply developed and multifaceted.
figures

Commonly used to refer to people who have a significant role or impact in a particular field or context, such as historical figures, political figures, or public figures.

  • Albert Einstein is one of the most influential figures in the history of science.
  • The conference will feature several key figures from the tech industry.
personalities

Used to describe individuals known for their distinctive traits, especially in the context of media, entertainment, or public life.

  • Television personalities often have a significant influence on popular culture.
  • She is known as a vibrant and charismatic personality in the art world.
icons

Refers to people who are widely admired and recognized for their achievements or contributions, often in popular culture, fashion, or significant movements.

  • Audrey Hepburn is considered an icon of classic Hollywood cinema.
  • Nelson Mandela remains an icon of the fight for justice and equality.

Examples of usage

  • The museum features exhibits on key personages from the past.
  • He studied the lives of historical personages in depth.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'personages'

The word 'personages' originated from the Middle French word 'personage', which meant a person of importance or distinction. Over time, it evolved to refer to characters in literature and historical figures. The term has been used in English since the 15th century to describe notable individuals in various contexts.


See also: depersonalization, depersonalize, depersonalizing, impersonate, impersonation, impersonator, nonperson, people, personable, personage, personal, personalities, personality, personalizer, personally, personification, personified, personify, personifying, personnel, persons.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,914, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.