figuratively
|fig/ur/a/tive/ly|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈfɪɡjərətɪvli/
🇬🇧
/ˈfɪɡjʊrətɪvli/
(figurative)
metaphorical
Etymology
Etymology Information
'figuratively' originates from the Latin word 'figurativus,' where 'figura' meant 'shape or form.'
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 a figure or form,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'metaphorical or symbolic.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is metaphorical or symbolic, not literal.
He was figuratively drowning in paperwork.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40