dead metaphors

noun

plural of dead metaphor
as in code words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for dead metaphors
  1. euphemisms
  2. similes
  3. metaphors
  4. analogies
Noun
  • Sam Roberts, a longtime obituarist for the New York Times, wants to banish the euphemisms that attend death.
    — Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Tshabalala’s bluntness about the economic cost is the rare honest signal here; business will not be pacified by euphemisms.
    — Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 10 July 2026
Definition of euphemisms
Noun
  • Salazar-Thompson’s witty script — packed with hilarious metaphors and similes (like comparing a woman’s firm grip on her purse to that of a two-toed sloth on a branch) — make for a consistently amusing trip back in time.
    — Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Mar. 2026
Definition of similes
Noun
  • In their desperation to sound unique, applicants often think too outside the box, trying out unusual formats, elaborate metaphors, or intentionally quirky topics in an effort to seem memorable.
    — Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Being the kind of person who adorns themselves compulsively opens you up to a slew of corny metaphors that, against your will, feel deeply relevant to you.
    — Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of metaphors
Noun
  • Most of the time, senators exercising this role must rely on gauzy assurances and strained analogies to the candidate’s performance in previous positions.
    — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The odd catchphrases, strained analogies, random noises and awkward jokes are well below the standard set by the other lead NFL analysts.
    — Bobby Burack OutKick, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026
Definition of analogies
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.

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dead metaphor
dead metaphors
deadness
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Cite this Entry

“Dead metaphors.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dead%20metaphors. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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