Metaphor
noun /ˈmet.ə.fɔːr/ — A direct comparison that describes one thing as another
Definition
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable — saying one thing is another to reveal a truth about both.
Beyond the definition
The most fundamental tool of understanding. Metaphors don't just describe — they create meaning that only exists in the comparison.
Origin & history
From Greek 'metaphora' — 'meta' (over, across) + 'pherein' (to carry). A metaphor carries meaning across from one domain to another.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Her grief was a fog that settled over everything — a metaphor that the novel sustained for 300 pages.
The metaphor of light for understanding runs through every tradition of philosophy.
Time is money — perhaps the most consequential metaphor in the English language.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Metaphor” when the meaning fits your context: A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable — saying one thing is another to reveal a truth about both.
Synonyms
figure of speech, analogy, comparison, trope
Antonyms
literal statement
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Metaphor" mean?
Metaphor is noun meaning: A direct comparison that describes one thing as another. A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable — saying one thing is another to reveal a truth about both.
Where does the word "Metaphor" come from?
From Greek 'metaphora' — 'meta' (over, across) + 'pherein' (to carry). A metaphor carries meaning across from one domain to another.