figuratively

[ fig-yer-uh-tiv-lee ]

adverb

1. 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.

2. by means of a figure, likeness, or emblem:

   In art and literature, the former kingdom was often figuratively presented as a woman.

Other Words From

• non·fig·ur·a·tive·ly adverb
• sem·i·fig·ur·a·tive·ly adverb
• un·fig·ur·a·tive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of figuratively¹

figurative ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Let’s talk about the title of the album, which speaks to your own personal experience of figuratively getting out of the mud and blossoming into a beautiful lotus as well as your spirituality.

From Los Angeles Times

They were feeling the heat, literally and figuratively, in the unbearable temperatures that have accompanied the first Test against Pakistan in Multan.

From BBC

The Chargers limp, both figuratively and literally, into their off week with consecutive losses and a litany of injuries after losing 17-10 to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

From Los Angeles Times

Literally and figuratively, he towered over everyone around him.

From Los Angeles Times

The accompanying pitching concerns, however, ensured it was a dark day, with storm clouds literally and figuratively hanging overhead.

From Los Angeles Times