Synonyms of metaphor

metaphor

noun

ˈme-tə-ˌfȯr 

as in analogy

an elaborate or fanciful way of expressing something

"it's raining cats and dogs" is just a colorful metaphor and not a meteorological announcement

Synonyms & Similar Words

• analogy
• figure of speech
• device
• conceit
• simile
• euphemism
• code word
• circumlocution
• dead metaphor
• catachresis
• mixed metaphor
• crank

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of metaphor

As in Seneca’s metaphor of honey-making, the ingredients determine the taste of the product, but they are entirely transformed by the generative process. — Mario Carpo, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026

The sponge stick was such a normal, everyday object that it could even be used in metaphor. — Andrew Coletti, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026

In verse 5 the central metaphor changes from shepherd to host. — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 Aug. 2026

And maybe that is the perfect metaphor for football in Florida in 2026. — Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026

Video

When Body Parts Are Also Verbs

Head, shoulders, metaphors, and toes