metaphor
UK: ˈmet.ə.fɔːr | US: ˈmet̬.ə.fɔːr
n. a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable, to suggest a resemblance.
n. a symbolic or abstract representation of an idea or concept.
The word "metaphor" originates from Greek "metaphora," combining "meta-" (meaning "beyond" or "across") and "pherein" (meaning "to carry" or "to bear"). Literally, it signifies "carrying across" or "transferring" meaning from one context to another. This reflects the essence of metaphor as a linguistic tool that "carries" the qualities of one thing to another, creating imaginative comparisons. Over time, the term evolved in Latin ("metaphora") and Middle French ("métaphore") before entering English in the 16th century, retaining its core idea of symbolic transference.
"Her smile was a ray of sunshine" is a classic metaphor.
The poet used the metaphor of a storm to describe his anger.
In literature, metaphors enrich descriptions by drawing vivid parallels.
The phrase "time is a thief" serves as a powerful metaphor for loss.
Scientific models often rely on metaphors to explain complex phenomena.