adj.
Pronunciation: ' fi-g(y) ə -r ə -tiv
Function: adjective
Date: 14th century
1 a : representing by a figure or resemblance : EMBLEMATIC b : of or relating to representation of form or figure in art < figurative sculpture>
2 a : expressing one thing in terms normally denoting another with which it may be regarded as analogous : METAPHORICAL < figurative language> b : characterized by figures of speech <a figurative description>
– fig · u · ra · tive · ly adverb
– fig · u · ra · tive · ness noun