Definitions

1. proper noun

the heroine of Shakespeare’s play ‘The Merchant of Venice’; a woman of noble character and intelligence

“In the play, Portia disguises herself as a lawyer to defend her husband’s friend.”

2. noun

a type of ship’s door or entrance

“The portia on the old sailing vessel was narrow and difficult to navigate.”

3. noun

a woman who acts as a guardian or protector, especially of a man’s property or interests

“As a portia, she managed the estate and made sure it was well-maintained.”

4. verb

to serve as a portia or guardian of a man’s property or interests

“She portia-ed the estate after her husband’s death, until their son came of age.”