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

Aaron Sorkin is adjusting to the light, metaphorically speaking. — Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 29 Sep. 2026

The video has so many of Taylor’s favorite tropes—weddings that turn into a mess, metaphorically breaking glass, red wine spilling, mad women, chatty ghosts, symbolic houses. — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2026

Our conversation danced like the flames, and sparks flew (literally and metaphorically) as Quinn cut and hammered iron. — Sarah Wood González, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Sep. 2026

Literally or metaphorically, your ideal romance or financial situation is top of mind right now. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for metaphorically

• allegorically
• rhetorically