Figuratives

Part of speech: noun, adjective

Definitions

1. Representations or expressions that convey meaning beyond their literal significance
2. A form of language that uses metaphors, similes, and symbolism to express ideas imaginatively
3. Descriptive language that illustrates deeper concepts through non-literal comparisons or representations

Etymology: "Figuratives" is simply the plural of "figurative," which is used as a noun for nonliteral language forms such as metaphor and irony. The adjective "figurative" comes from Middle French "figuratif," itself drawn from the Latin "figura," meaning shape, form or figure. The underlying idea is that a figure of speech gives words a shape different from their plain meaning, so that a phrase is understood through a likeness rather than taken at face value.

Synonyms: metaphors, symbols, representations, allegories, emblems

Antonyms: literal, literal expressions, factual