metaphor

met-a-phor · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable, implying a comparison.

  2. 2.

    A thing regarded as representative or symbolic of something else.

Forms

plural: metaphors

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mixed metaphor — a combination of incompatible metaphors that produces an absurd effect
  • •
    extended metaphor — a metaphor developed over several lines or throughout a work
  • •
    dead metaphor — a metaphor so common that it is no longer recognized as figurative

Related words

Antonyms: literal expression
See also: analogy, figurative, simile, symbol
Synonyms: analogy, figure of speech, imagery, symbol

Etymology

From Greek metaphora ("a transfer"), from metapherein ("to transfer"), from meta- ("over, across") + pherein ("to carry, bear"). The idea is of carrying meaning from one word to another.