Figurative
Origin
From Middle French figuratif
Full definition of figurative
Adjective
figurative
- Metaphorical or tropical, as opposed to literal; using figures; as of the use of "cats and dogs" in the phrase "It's raining cats and dogs".
- 2005, May 1, The Sea of Love, The lovers she seems to pursue with her figurative language in fact retreat under the barrage of similes, metaphors and fables.
- Metaphorically so called
- With many figures of speech
- Emblematic; representative
- HookerThis, they will say, was figurative, and served, by God's appointment, but for a time, to shadow out the true glory of a more divine sanctity.
- J. A. SymondsThey belonged to a nation dedicated to the figurative arts, and they wrote for a public familiar with painted form.
Usage notes
Said of language, expression, etc.