metaphorically

adverb

met·​a·​phor·​i·​cal·​ly ˌme-tə-ˈfȯr-i-k(ə-)lē 

-ˈfär-

: in a metaphorical or figurative sense rather than a literal sense : by using a metaphor

At the center of every encryption system is a secret number or mathematical operation, metaphorically referred to as a key.

—Peter Wayner

At a typical event, he comes crashing onstage, delivers a macho statement of intent, metaphorically flexes his muscles, then roars away.

—Terry McCarthy

They settled in Somerville, Mass., next door to Cambridge but metaphorically across the tracks.

—Laura Shapiro

Examples of metaphorically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

New gyms in Oakland, Harlem, and other areas aren’t just meeting recreational demand—they’re creating spaces where young people can literally and metaphorically reach new heights. —Skylar Mitchell, Essence, 9 Sep. 2025

Garfield was visibly amused and turned in his seat, physically and metaphorically giving his costars the floor to answer, while Roberts and Edebiri gave Polidoro confused glances. —Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025

That — metaphorically and literally — is earned dogmatism, the risk that expertise breeds rigidity in our thinking and decision-making. —Tim Maurer, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

But finding the right fit—literally and metaphorically—is worth it in my opinion. —Dory Zayas, Allure, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for metaphorically

• allegorically
• rhetorically