Metaphor Definition and Examples |Types of Metaphor

Table of Contents

Metaphor Definition:

A metaphor is a figure of speech that draws comparisons between two dissimilar ideas. It compares two different entities, it differs from a simile which gives an explicit comparison by the words like or as. It shows hidden comparisons. One has to focus to figure out. What does it mean? A writer uses this figure of speech to engage you, making the content attractive and interesting. Below are Metaphor Definition, Metaphor Examples, and Types of Metaphor.

According to Grammarly, it is defined as a figure of speech that describes an object or action, not in the right way but presents an idea or gives a comparison.
Merriam-Webster defines it as a phrase or word that denotes one type of object or idea in place of another to present an analogy.
According to the Collins Dictionary, it is applied to an action or object to show a likeness, which it does not directly express.
Dictionary.com defines it as a term or phrase in something that is directly not usable to. It is used to denote a similarity.
Cambridge Dictionary, it is a figure of speech, an expression found in literature usually,It represents a person or object to something considered to have identical features.

ETYMOLOGY:

Let’s delve into the etymology. Its roots drafts back to the 15th century. But it does not have a single origin. It comes from the Old French métaphore, which comes from the Latin “metaphora”. Metaphora means “carrying over.” The Latin word “metaphora” comes from the Greek word “metaphorá.” The Greek word “metaphorá” means “to transfer.” Did you realize? It has almost the same meaning in all three languages.

Examples:

Metaphor Examples can be found and used everywhere. From daily life to literature and from movies to songs.

Life is a 9-D adventurous ride.
Her room was a zoo.
Her heart is a diamond.
The snowfall is a white blanket.

Types of Metaphor:

The following are the types.

Direct metaphor

It compares two unidentical things, saying one thing as another in an explicit manner. They connect two things by using the form of a verb.

Examples:

Henry was a saint!
Lisa and Ella are two peas in a pod.
A Dream is a plane to another world.

Implied metaphor

It compares two different things and doesn’t name anyone in an exact way. It makes comparisons by use of a non-literal verb.

Examples:

Her laughter lit up the room.
The Teacher barked orders at the students.
He cut down his rival with his words.

Extended metaphor

Definition: It’s another name is “sustained metaphor”. It develops an initial comparison in several lines or paragraphs. They are common in advertising and literature but are less common in everyday speech.

Example:

Her laughter is music to my ears, a symphony of pleasure that fills the room.

Mixed metaphor

Definition: It joins two or more metaphors, and results in a silly or illogical statement. These are usually accidental and create confusion. It makes writing lack coherence.

Examples: