SG Heritage Dictionary

Figurative [Adjective] Webster's Dictionary 1828

1. Representing something else; representing by resemblance; typical.

2. 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.

3. Representing by resemblance; not literal or direct. A figurative expression, is one in which the words are used in a sense different from that in which they are ordinarily used as,

4. Slander, whose edge is sharper than the sword.

5. Abounding with figures of speech; as a description highly figurative

Figurative [Adjective] Webster's Dictionary 1913

1. Representing by a figure, or by resemblance; typical; representative.

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.

Figuratively [Adverb] Webster's Dictionary 1828

By a figure; in a manner to exhibit ideas by resemblance; in a sense different from that which words originally imply. Words are used figuratively when they express something different from their usual meaning.