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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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The first known use of metaphorically was in 1534
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