The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word PLATY
P
L
A
T
Y
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The straight part
We know that "portraying particular character" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case portraying particular character = platy.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PLATY mean?
PLATY adjective- Resembling plates.
- Of a field semy of plates.
- Composed of thin plate-like pieces of rock or mineral.
- Any of two species (and hybrids) of tropical fish of the genus Xiphophorus (which also includes the swordtails).