metaphorical — containing or using metaphors; figurative rather than literal
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: containing or using metaphors; figurative rather than literal
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌmetəˈfɔːrɪkəl/
Example Sentences
- When my mom said 'Your room is a tornado,' she was being metaphorical - thankfully, no actual tornado hit my bedroom.
- The teacher's metaphorical description of the atom as a miniature solar system helped students understand the concept.
- His metaphorical 'bridge-building' between the two departments actually involved zero construction work.
metaphorical
ADJECTIVE[/ˌmetəˈfɔːrɪkəl/]
containing or using metaphors; figurative rather than literal
Calling her a rock in difficult times was a metaphorical way of saying that she was strong and dependable.
The poet used a metaphorical description of time as a river flowing endlessly toward the sea. (“Time is a river.”: Time is not literally a river. The river is used to express the idea that time continuously flows forward.)
The novel uses metaphorical images to explore philosophical questions and reveal the characters' psychological struggles.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek, combining 'meta' (beyond, across) and 'pherein' (to carry, to bear), literally meaning 'to carry meaning across' or 'to transfer'. This formation reflects the fundamental concept of metaphor as transferring or transposing meaning from one semantic domain to another.
Breakdown
meta- (beyond, across) + phor (from pherein, to carry/bear) + -ical (adjectival suffix forming adjectives). The -ical suffix transforms the nominal form 'metaphor' into an adjective describing something of or relating to metaphor.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“When my mom said 'Your room is a tornado,' she was being metaphorical - thankfully, no actual tornado hit my bedroom.”
“The teacher's metaphorical description of the atom as a miniature solar system helped students understand the concept.”
“His metaphorical 'bridge-building' between the two departments actually involved zero construction work.”
“The poem's metaphorical imagery transforms ordinary objects into symbols of hope.”
📚Related Words
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