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figure of speech

noun phrase

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

First Known Use of figure of speech

1751

in the meaning defined above

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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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figure of speech

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