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
Peter WaynerAt a typical event, he comes crashing onstage, delivers a macho statement of intent, metaphorically flexes his muscles, then roars away.—Terry McCarthy
Terry McCarthyThey settled in Somerville, Mass., next door to Cambridge but metaphorically across the tracks.—Laura Shapiro
Laura ShapiroExamples of metaphorically in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The King and Queen were metaphorically putting an arm around them.
—Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 25 Mar. 2026
Try styling with white socks and slim shoes—or even go with heels for a look that’s elevated both literally and metaphorically.
—Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 24 Mar. 2026
Many of us as Christians also apply the commands — metaphorically — to our own spiritual experience.
—James Coffin, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2026
The late guru, who lived quietly on Dearborn Street in Chicago, had little public profile but a slew of devotees like Hughes, who credited him with refining their acts and would journey to Chicago to sit at his knee — metaphorically, at least.
—Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for metaphorically
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 25 Mar. 2026
Try styling with white socks and slim shoes—or even go with heels for a look that’s elevated both literally and metaphorically.
—Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 24 Mar. 2026
Many of us as Christians also apply the commands — metaphorically — to our own spiritual experience.
—James Coffin, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2026
The late guru, who lived quietly on Dearborn Street in Chicago, had little public profile but a slew of devotees like Hughes, who credited him with refining their acts and would journey to Chicago to sit at his knee — metaphorically, at least.
—Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for metaphorically
Cite this Entry
“Metaphorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metaphorically. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
