figuratively
Americanadverb
-
in a way that involves or invokes a metaphor or figure of speech; metaphorically.
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated to remove darkness from our lives both literally and figuratively.
We figuratively envision personal space as an aura or a soap bubble.
-
by means of a figure, likeness, or emblem.
In art and literature, the former kingdom was often figuratively presented as a woman.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of figuratively
Compare meaning
How does figuratively compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
The adverb figuratively describes something symbolic, not actual. If a friend invites you to tonight's concert but you already have plans with your family, you might say — figuratively — that your hands are tied. Something that's said figuratively isn't intended to be taken as the literal truth, but as a symbol of something, or as emphasis. Figures of speech are good examples of things people say figuratively, like "the book begged to be read," or "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" — not meant to be understood literally (you really don't want to eat that horse, do you?). The Latin word figurare, "to form or fashion," is the root of figuratively.
Vocabulary lists containing figuratively
Dear Martin
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Commonly Confused Words, List 2
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
A Very Large Expanse of Sea
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But thinking about it and listening to everybody here right now, I just am very grateful to have a seat at the table, literally and figuratively.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 9, 2026
The Axiom suits are literally and figuratively cool, designed by the Italian fashion house Prada and built by Houston-based Axiom Space.
From BBC ● Jun. 9, 2026
For many years, day trading was reserved for professional traders and wealthy investors — not just figuratively but because of a restriction known as the pattern day-trading rule.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 3, 2026
At the end, he was cultivating his garden, literally and figuratively, especially at Het Steen, the country house he purchased in 1635 for his retirement.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 1, 2026
Not forever, maybe—not forever, for sure—and not figuratively.
From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
