Definition Definition

figurative - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'figurative' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Figurative [ a.]
- Representing by a figure, or by resemblance; typical; representative.
- Used in a sense that is tropical, as a metaphor; not literal; -- applied to words and expressions.
- Abounding in figures of speech; flowery; florid; as, a highly figurative description.
- Relating to the representation of form or figure by drawing, carving, etc. See Figure, n., 2.

Meaning of 'figurative' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . figurative [ a]
Meaning (1):
- (used of the meanings of words or text) not literal; using figures of speech
Example in sentence:
  • figurative language
2 . figurative [ s]
Meaning (2):
- consisting of or forming human or animal figures
Example in sentence:
  • a figural design;
  • the figurative art of the humanistic tradition