Metaphor

Definition

Metaphor is a figure of speech in which a term or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable, suggesting a resemblance or analogy.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛtəˌfɔr/
• Respelling: MET-uh-for (with "MET" as in "met," "uh" as in "sofa," and "for" as in "for")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛtəfə/
• Respelling: MET-uh-fuh (with "MET" as in "met," "uh" as in "sofa," and "fuh" as in "fuss")

In both dialects, "metaphor" places the primary stress on the first syllable. The pronunciation differs slightly between American and British English, with "MET-uh-for" in American English and "MET-uh-fuh" in British English.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word "metaphorá" meaning "transfer," from "meta-" (beyond, over) + "pherein" (to carry, bear).

Derivatives

• Metaphoric
• Metaphorical
• Metaphorically
• Metaphorist
• Metaphorize

Synonyms

• Analogy
• Simile (though technically different in usage)
• Emblem

Antonyms

• Literal statement
• Fact
• None

Usage

The term "metaphor" describes a rhetorical device where a word or phrase is symbolically applied to an object or action with which it's not literally associated.

• Her voice is music to his ears (metaphorically suggesting her voice is as pleasant as music).
• Time is a thief (indicating that time steals moments, even though it doesn't literally "steal").

Related Terms

• Allegory
• Symbol
• Trope

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Figure of Speech; A word or phrase used in a non-literal sense to add rhetorical force to a spoken or written passage.‍
• Example: In "The world is a stage," the world is metaphorically compared to a stage.

• Object Symbolizing Another: An object, activity, or idea that is used as a symbol of something else.‍
• Example: The metaphor of the "melting pot" is used to describe a society where different types of people blend together as one.