figurative

a. [ L. figurativus: cf. F. figuratif. See Figurative. ] 1. Representing by a figure, or by resemblance; typical; representative. [ 1913 Webster ]

This, they will say, was figurative, and served, by God's appointment, but for a time, to shadow out the true glory of a more divine sanctity. Hooker. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Used in a sense that is tropical, as a metaphor; not literal; -- applied to words and expressions. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Abounding in figures of speech; flowery; florid; as, a highly figurative description. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. Relating to the representation of form or figure by drawing, carving, etc. See Figure, n., 2. [ 1913 Webster ]

They belonged to a nation dedicated to the figurative arts, and they wrote for a public familiar with painted form. J. A. Symonds. [ 1913 Webster ]

Figurative counterpoint or
Figurative descant. See under Figurate.

-- Fig"ur*a*tive*ly, adv. -- Fig"ur*a*tive*ness, n. [ 1913 Webster ]