SINCE 1828
metaphorically
adverb
met·a·phor·i·cal·ly
| \ ˌme-tə-ˈfȯr-i-k(ə-)lē
, -ˈfär-\
, -ˈfär-\
Definition of metaphorically
: 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
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