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
Keep scrolling for more
Learn More about metaphorically
Dictionary Entries near metaphorically
See More Nearby EntriesStatistics for metaphorically
Look-up Popularity
Cite this Entry
“Metaphorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metaphorically. Accessed 10 Apr. 2021.
Style: MLA
MLA
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on metaphorically
What made you want to look up metaphorically? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
The Exceptions Quiz III
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share metaphorically
Time Traveler for metaphorically
The first known use of metaphorically was in 1534
See more words from the same year