Figurative (adjective)

1. Relating to or using figures of speech, especially metaphor, simile, and other forms of non-literal language.
2. Not to be taken in a literal sense.

Origin:

Figurative (adj) early 17th century: from latin figurativus, from figura "figure, image".

Examples:

1. This is a figurative expression, not to be taken literally.
2. The poem uses a lot of figurative language.
3. The painting is figurative, not abstract.
4. He used a figurative analogy to explain the situation.
5. He spoke in figurative terms, not giving a direct answer.