What is the definition of simile?
The definition of simile is a metaphorical phrase comparing two unlike things using the word “like” or “as.”
Simile
Last Updated on April 5, 2021, by eNotes Editorial. Word Count: 125
A simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison of two unlike things with the help of comparative words such as like or as. Remember, similes are a form of figurative language, so watch out for phrases that use a like or as format but are actually...
(The entire section contains 125 words.)
Unlock This Study Guide Now
Start your 48-hour free trial to unlock this Guide to Literary Terms study guide. You'll get access to all of the Guide to Literary Terms content, as well as access to more than 30,000 additional guides and more than 350,000 Homework Help questions answered by our experts.
- Introduction
- Complete Index
Already a member? Log in here.
A simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison of two unlike things with the help of comparative words such as like or as. Remember, similes are a form of figurative language, so watch out for phrases that use a like or as format but are actually meant literally.
Correct example:
“O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright./ It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night/ Like a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear.”
Incorrect example:
“He straightened his tie and sighed with relief to see that he looked like himself again.”
- This phrase does not qualify as a simile because the terms being compared are not really different; in other words, it is meant literally.
Explore all literary terms.
