metaphorical
UK: ˌmetəˈfɒrɪk(ə)l | US: ˌmetəˈfɔːrɪk(ə)l
adj. relating to or using metaphor; symbolic or figurative in meaning
metaphorical = metaphor<transfer of meaning> + ical<adjective suffix>
- metaphor: From Greek metaphora (meta<beyond> + phor<carry>), originally referring to the rhetorical device of "carrying meaning beyond" literal interpretation.
- ical: A suffix forming adjectives, often indicating "relating to" or "pertaining to" (e.g., historical, musical).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek metaphora, where meta- (beyond) and pherein (to carry) combine to describe transferring meaning from one concept to another. Over time, metaphor entered Late Latin (metaphora) and Old French (metaphore), eventually adopting the -ical suffix in English to form metaphorical—emphasizing figurative language.
Her speech was rich with metaphorical language, comparing life to a winding river.
The poet’s metaphorical description of grief as a "heavy cloak" resonated deeply.
In literature, metaphorical expressions often convey complex emotions more powerfully than literal terms.
His metaphorical use of "building bridges" symbolized efforts to reconcile differences.
The painting’s metaphorical meaning was debated by art critics for decades.