What does metaphoric mean?
Metaphoric is an adjective meaning connected with metaphor: language or interpretation that presents one thing through another by an implied or stated comparison. It is especially used in discussions of literature, art, philosophy, religion, and figurative language. Rather than describing something only at face value, a metaphoric expression can suggest a resemblance, emotional association, symbolic relationship, or deeper meaning. For example, calling a person “a storm” does not identify the person as a weather event; the description uses the image of a storm to convey intensity, disruption, or force. The word is closely related to the more familiar “metaphorical,” but “metaphoric” is somewhat less frequent and can sound more specialized. It should not be confused with “metaphysical,” which concerns philosophy, reality, and existence rather than figurative representation.
adjectiveRelating to or employing metaphor, especially the use of one thing to represent another by an implied or stated comparison. It may also describe language whose meaning is conveyed figuratively rather than literally.
- Of language or expression: involving or based on metaphor rather than literal description.
- Of interpretation or meaning: conveyed through an implied or stated comparison between unlike things.
- Of a work, concept, or relationship: using metaphor as a central expressive device or point of comparison.
"The poem's metaphoric language transforms an ordinary landscape into a reflection of the speaker's inner life."
"Her metaphoric description of grief as a storm gives the emotion a vivid physical presence."
"The critics interpreted the painting's bold colors in a deeply metaphoric way."
Metaphoric language lets one thing borrow the identity of another, turning a simple image into a new way of seeing the world.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metaphoric come from?
Metaphoric comes ultimately from Greek, combining roots associated with “change” or “transfer” and “bearing” or “carrying.” The underlying idea is that meaning is carried or transferred from one thing to another. English developed the related forms “metaphor” and “metaphorical” from the same Greek tradition, with “metaphoric” emerging as a more specialized adjective.
Related word forms
How metaphoric is actually used
Metaphoric is fully standard but less common than “metaphorical.” It is especially associated with literary, artistic, and philosophical discussion. In careful usage, a metaphor is a figure of speech, whereas a “metaphoric” statement may be understood more broadly as figurative or symbolizing something.
Easily confused with metaphoric
Both words can describe something involving metaphor, but “metaphorical” is the more common and idiomatic adjective, whereas “metaphoric” is somewhat more specialized or formal.
“Metaphoric” concerns figurative representation through metaphor, while “metaphysical” concerns philosophy, existence, or the nature of reality.