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figure of speech

Definition of figure of speech

:a form of expression (such as a simile or metaphor) used to convey meaning or heighten effect often by comparing or identifying one thing with another that has a meaning or connotation familiar to the reader or listener

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First Known Use of figure of speech

1751

Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms

ablaut, allusion, anacoluthon, diacritic, gerund, idiom, infinitive, metaphor, semiotics, simile

FIGURE OF SPEECH Defined for Kids

figure of speech

noun

Definition of figure of speech for Students

plural figures of speech
:an expression (as a simile or a metaphor) that uses words in other than a plain or literal way

Learn More about figure of speech

  1. See words that rhyme with figure of speech Spanish Central: Translation of figure of speech Nglish: Translation of figure of speech for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about figure of speech

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WORD OF THE DAY

anathematize

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to curse or denounce

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TRENDING NOW

  1. dotage, dotard a state or period of senile decay

  2. otherwise "in other respects"

  3. federalism Graham says bill gives power to states

  4. bodega "Don’t mess with the beloved bodega."

  5. carceral Of, relating to, or suggesting a jail or prison

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figure of speech

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Words at Play

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The word's origins are quite literal

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Spill it, sip it: just make it hot.

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Common terms that come from boxing and wrestling

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When you push a meeting, where does it go?

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Or, Why Pig Meat is Called 'Pork' and Cow Meat is Called 'Beef'

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Irregardless

It is in fact a real word (but that doesn't mean you should use it).

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One goose, two geese. One moose, two... moose. What's up with that?

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