Definition of "figurative" in English

adjective

1. Of use as a metaphor, simile, metonym or other figure of speech, as opposed to literal; using figures.

2. Metaphorically so called.

3. With many figures of speech.

4. Emblematic, symbolic; representative, exemplative

5. (art) Representing forms recognisable in life and clearly derived from real object sources, in contrast to abstract art.

   • 1875-1886, John Addington Symonds, Renaissance in Italy They belonged to a nation dedicated to the figurative arts, and they wrote for a public familiar with painted form.