Metaphorical (adjective)

1. Expressing or implying an idea or feeling indirectly through the use of a word or phrase that normally describes something else.
2. Not to be taken in a literal sense.

Origin:

Late 16th century: from french métaphorique or late latin metaphoricus, from greek metaphorikos, from metaphora "a carrying over" (see metaphor).

Examples:

1. The metaphor of a journey to describe life is often used in literature.
2. The phrase "a heart of stone" is a metaphorical expression, meaning someone is emotionally cold.
3. The song's lyrics contain many metaphorical references to the sea.
4. The phrase "a sea of troubles" is a metaphorical way of describing a large number of difficulties.
5. The expression "a light at the end of the tunnel" is a metaphorical way of describing hope.