Main Entry:

fig·u·ra·tive

Pronunciation:

\ˈfi-g(y)ə-rə-tiv\

Function:

adjective

Date:

14th century

1 a: representing by a figure or resemblance : emblematic b: of or relating to representation of form or figure in art <figurative sculpture>2 a: expressing one thing in terms normally denoting another with which it may be regarded as analogous : metaphorical <figurative language> b: characterized by figures of speech <a figurative description>

— fig·u·ra·tive·ly adverb

— fig·u·ra·tive·ness noun