metaphorically
adverb
met·a·phor·i·cal·ly
ˌme-tə-ˈfȯr-i-k(ə-)lē 
-ˈfär-
: in a metaphorical or figurative sense rather than a literal sense : by using a metaphor
At the center of every encryption system is a secret number or mathematical operation, metaphorically referred to as a key.—
Peter Wayner
Peter WaynerAt a typical event, he comes crashing onstage, delivers a macho statement of intent, metaphorically flexes his muscles, then roars away.—Terry McCarthy
Terry McCarthyThey settled in Somerville, Mass., next door to Cambridge but metaphorically across the tracks.—Laura Shapiro
Laura ShapiroExamples of metaphorically in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Successful entrepreneurs focus on their core strengths and stay centered, adjusting only when necessary (or when metaphorically getting kicked in the ribs).
—Jj Rosen, The Tennessean, 15 July 2025
Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe The Brooks Ghost Max 2 are going to sweep you off your feet — metaphorically, of course.
—Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 12 July 2025
The day mothers of all kinds receive their flowers (metaphorically and literally) is nearly here.
—Grace Tucker, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
The unconscious mind is constantly speaking to us through symptoms, symbols and nighttime escapades that tell us something, metaphorically speaking, about our waking reality.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for metaphorically
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Jj Rosen, The Tennessean, 15 July 2025
Brooks Ghost Max 2 Running Shoe The Brooks Ghost Max 2 are going to sweep you off your feet — metaphorically, of course.
—Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 12 July 2025
The day mothers of all kinds receive their flowers (metaphorically and literally) is nearly here.
—Grace Tucker, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
The unconscious mind is constantly speaking to us through symptoms, symbols and nighttime escapades that tell us something, metaphorically speaking, about our waking reality.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for metaphorically
Cite this Entry
“Metaphorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metaphorically. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.
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