Metaphor

A figure of speech or visual work that implies comparison between two unlike entities, in which a word, phrase, or idea is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable in order to suggest a resemblance. Metaphor is the fundamental language of poetry, although it is common in all kinds of language and in visual works. An example is the title of the Tennessee Williams play, "Sweet Bird of Youth," which implyies that the time of youth seems to fly, i.e., pass quickly. For an explicit comparison signaled by the words "like" or "as," use "simile."