figuratively

Variant of figurative

figurative definition

fig·ura·tive (fig′yo̵or ə tiv′, -yər-)

adjective

  1. representing by means of a figure, symbol, or likeness
  2. having to do with figure drawing, painting, etc.
  3. not in its original, usual, literal, or exact sense; representing one concept in terms of another that may be thought of as analogous with it; metaphoric in “screaming headlines,” the word “screaming” is a figurative use
  4. containing figures of speech

Etymology: ME < OFr figuratif < LL figurativus < L figuratus, pp. of figurare, to form, fashion < figura, figure

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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