Metaphor

A metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest likeness or analogy between them. Metaphors carry meaning across and beyond, from one discipline to another, in order to extend the understanding through the use of comparison. A metaphor helps people in understanding a foreign concept by comparing it to something familiar.

"The CPU is the brain of the computer."

"Society is drowning in a sea of information."

Compiled by

Eric Schactman eds1@cec.wustl.edu Last Updated 10/31/94