figurative
|fig/u/ra/tive|
B2
/ˈfɪɡjərətɪv/
metaphorical
Etymology
Etymology Information
'figurative' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'figurativus,' where 'figura' meant 'form or shape.'
Historical Evolution
'figurativus' transformed into the Old French word 'figuratif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'figurative.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'related to form or shape,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'symbolic or metaphorical.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
using figures of speech; symbolic or metaphorical rather than literal.
The phrase 'time is a thief' is a figurative expression.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41