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

Successful entrepreneurs focus on their core strengths and stay centered, adjusting only when necessary (or when metaphorically getting kicked in the ribs). —Jj Rosen, The Tennessean, 15 July 2025

Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe The Brooks Ghost Max 2 are going to sweep you off your feet — metaphorically, of course. —Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 12 July 2025

The day mothers of all kinds receive their flowers (metaphorically and literally) is nearly here. —Grace Tucker, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

The unconscious mind is constantly speaking to us through symptoms, symbols and nighttime escapades that tell us something, metaphorically speaking, about our waking reality. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for metaphorically

• allegorically
• rhetorically