metaphor

Pronunciation:

\me-tə-fo r also -fər\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English methaphor, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French metaphore, from Latin metaphora, from Greek, from metapherein to transfer, from meta- + pherein to bear — more at bear

Date:

15th century

1: 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 a likeness or analogy between them (as in drowning in money) ; broadly : figurative language — compare simile

2: an object, activity, or idea treated as a metaphor : symbol 2met·a·phor·i·cal·ly

\-i-k(ə-)lē\ adverb— met·a·phor·ic \ˌme-tə-ˈfȯr-ik, -ˈfär-\ or met·a·phor·i·cal \-i-kəl\ adjective

Inkling 

pronunciation (iŋk′liŋ)

noun

1). an indirect suggestion; slight indication; hint
2). a vague idea or notion; suspicion

Etymology: ME ingkiling < inclen, to give an inkling of

.