Dictionary
figurative
adjective fig·u·ra·tive \ˈfi-g(y)ə-rə-tiv\
of words, language, etc. : used with a meaning that is different from the basic meaning and that expresses an idea in an interesting way by using language that usually describes something else : not literal
: showing people and things in a way that resembles how they really look : not abstract
Full Definition of FIGURATIVE
1
a : representing by a figure or resemblance : emblematic b : of or relating to representation of form or figure in art <figurative sculpture>
2
a : expressing one thing in terms normally denoting another with which it may be regarded as analogous : metaphorical <figurative language> b : characterized by figures of speech <a figurative description>
— fig·u·ra·tive·ly adverb
— fig·u·ra·tive·ness noun
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First Known Use of FIGURATIVE
14th century
Related to FIGURATIVE
- Synonyms
- extended, figural, metaphoric (or metaphorical), tropical, tropological
- Antonyms
- nonfigurative, nonmetaphorical
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
FIGURATIVENESS Defined for Kids
figurative
adjective fig·u·ra·tive \ˈfi-gyə-rə-tiv\
Definition of FIGURATIVE for Kids
: expressing one thing in terms normally used for another <The word “foot” is figurative in “the foot of the mountain.”>
— fig·u·ra·tive·ly adverb
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Next Word in the Dictionary: figure (noun)Previous Word in the Dictionary: figurationAll Words Near: figurative
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