Figurative
Figurative , adjective
[Latin figurativus: compare French figuratif. See Figurative.]
1.
Representing by a figure, or by resemblance; typical; representative.
This, they will say, was figurative, and served, by God's appointment, but for a time, to shadow out the true glory of a more divine sanctity.
2.
Used in a sense that is tropical, as a metaphor; not literal; -- applied to words and expressions.
3.
Abounding in figures of speech; flowery; florid; as, a highly figurative description.
4.
Relating to the representation of form or figure by drawing, carving, etc. See Figure, n., 2.
They belonged to a nation dedicated to the figurative arts, and they wrote for a public familiar with painted form.
Collocations (1)
Figurative counterpoint or Figurative descant , See under Figurate.