Metaphor — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈme-tə-ˌfȯr/ met·a·phor

Meaning & Definition of Metaphor

Metaphor (noun)

  1. a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in swimming in paperwork); broadly, figurative language
  2. an object, activity, or idea treated as a metaphor, symbol

Metaphor (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. an elaborate or fanciful way of expressing something

    "it's raining cats and dogs is just a colorful metaphor and not a meteorological announcement"

    similar: conceit, figure of speech
    related: device, analogy, circumlocution, code word, crank, dead metaphor, euphemism, simile, catachresis, mixed metaphor

Related Entry: Dead metaphor (noun)

Dead metaphor is a different word from Metaphor. The synonyms below are for dead metaphor, not for metaphor.

  1. as in analogy, code word

    similar: analogy, circumlocution, code word, crank, euphemism, simile, conceit, metaphor, device, catachresis, mixed metaphor

Related Entry: Mixed metaphor (noun)

Mixed metaphor is a different word from Metaphor. The synonyms below are for mixed metaphor, not for metaphor.

  1. as in catachresis

    similar: catachresis, analogy, circumlocution, code word, crank, dead metaphor, euphemism, simile, device, conceit, metaphor

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Metaphor

The most common words with a similar meaning to Metaphor:

conceit, figure of speech

Related Words for Metaphor

device, analogy, circumlocution, code word, crank, dead metaphor, euphemism, simile, catachresis, mixed metaphor

Word Forms of Metaphor

Derived words: metaphoric (adjective)

Origin & Etymology of Metaphor

Middle English methaphor, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French metaphore, from Latin metaphora, from Greek, from metapherein to transfer, from meta- + pherein to bear bear

First known use: 15th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Metaphor

Words & Phrases Containing Metaphor

dead metaphor, mixed metaphor

Frequently Asked Questions about Metaphor

What does "Metaphor" mean?

"Metaphor" means a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in swimming in paperwork); broadly, figurative language. As a noun, it is defined as: a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in swimming in paperwork); broadly, figurative language.

What is another word for "Metaphor"?

Other words for "Metaphor" include conceit and figure of speech. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Metaphor" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Metaphor"?

There are 12 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Metaphor". Common alternatives include conceit and figure of speech.

How do you use "Metaphor" in a sentence?

Examples of "Metaphor" in a sentence: "it's raining cats and dogs is just a colorful metaphor and not a meteorological announcement".

Is "Metaphor" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Metaphor" is a noun.

Is "Metaphor" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Metaphor" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Metaphor"?

"Metaphor" is pronounced /ˈme-tə-ˌfȯr/ and divided into syllables as met·a·phor.

What is the origin of the word "Metaphor"?

"Metaphor" comes from Middle English methaphor, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French metaphore, from Latin metaphora, from Greek, from metapherein to transfer, from meta- + pherein to bear bear. First known use: 15th century.