01 a. Representing by a figure, or by resemblance; typical; representative.
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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.” — Hooker.
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2.
Used in a sense that is tropical, as a metaphor; not literal; -- applied to words and expressions.
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3.
Abounding in figures of speech; flowery; florid; as, a highly figurative description.
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4.
Relating to the representation of form or figure by drawing, carving, etc. See Figure, n., 2. See: Figure“They belonged to a nation dedicated to the figurative arts, and they wrote for a public familiar with painted form.” — J. A. Symonds.
Phrases & compounds
Figurative counterpoint —
See under Figurate.