metaphor

noun

ˈme-tə-ˌfȯr How to pronounce metaphor (audio)
Definition of metaphornext
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

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Example Sentences

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.
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 See All Example Sentences for metaphor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for metaphor
analogy
Noun
  • Asante draws a manufacturing analogy—with some exaggeration—arguing that previous nuclear power plants were built bespoke, akin to constructing an entire factory to produce a single car.
    — Jordan Blum, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
  • To run with Carney’s analogy, middle powers prepare an excellent menu of innovations and talent, and then place it on the table for superpowers to devour.
    — Wal van Lierop, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of analogy

Browse Nearby Words

metamorphosis
metaphor
metaphoric
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Metaphor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/metaphor. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on metaphor

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about metaphor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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