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Similes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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similes

[ˈsɪməli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in literature

Similes are figures of speech that compare two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. They are often used to make descriptions more vivid and to create a stronger connection between the reader and the text.

Synonyms

analogies, comparisons, metaphors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
similes

Often used in literature to make descriptions more vivid by comparing one thing to another with 'like' or 'as'.

  • Her smile was as bright as the sun.
  • He fought like a lion.
comparisons

Used in various contexts to highlight the similarities and differences between two or more items or ideas.

  • Summer is hotter than spring.
  • Cats are more independent than dogs.
analogies

Commonly used in education and writing to explain or clarify a concept by comparing it to something familiar.

  • Just as a sword is the weapon of a warrior, a pen is the weapon of a writer.
  • In life, one must steer clear of obstacles, much like a ship must avoid icebergs.
metaphors

Often used in poetry, literature, and everyday speech to imply that one thing is another, adding deeper meaning without using 'like' or 'as'.

  • Time is a thief.
  • The world is a stage.

Examples of usage

  • He ran like the wind.
  • Her smile was as bright as the sun.
  • The old man was as wise as an owl.
  • The water was like glass.
  • The child's laughter was like music to her ears.
Context #2 | Noun

in everyday language

In everyday language, similes are often used to make comparisons between two unrelated things to emphasize a particular quality or characteristic.

Synonyms

analogies, comparisons, metaphors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
similes

Used to compare two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. This helps to create a vivid image in the reader's or listener's mind.

  • Her smile was as bright as the sun.
  • He fought like a lion in the battle.
comparisons

Used to examine the similarities or differences between two or more things. This is often used to evaluate or analyze the given subjects in various contexts.

  • Compared to last year, this year's performance has significantly improved.
  • When comparing apples to oranges, you need to consider the differences in their nutritional value.
analogies

Used to explain a complex idea or thing using a more familiar concept. It often helps to make understanding easier by drawing parallels.

  • Explaining a computer's CPU is like comparing it to a brain that controls everything in the body.
  • Reading a book is to the mind what exercise is to the body.
metaphors

Used to describe one thing in terms of another, suggesting they are alike in a symbolic way. This can add deeper meaning or create a stronger impression.

  • Time is a thief that steals our moments.
  • The world is a stage, and we are merely players.

Examples of usage

  • He eats like a horse.
  • She is as quiet as a mouse.
  • The car was as fast as lightning.
  • The baby slept like a log.
  • The storm raged like a wild animal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Similes are widely used in poetry and prose to create vivid imagery and help readers visualize concepts.
  • Famous authors like Shakespeare and Robert Frost utilized similes to add depth to their works.

Psychology

  • Using similes can help improve comprehension, especially for children, by relating new ideas to familiar concepts.
  • Research shows that figurative language, including similes, stimulates both hemispheres of the brain, promoting creativity.

Pop Culture

  • Songwriters frequently use similes to express emotions and paint visual scenes in listeners' minds.
  • In television and movies, characters often use similes for comedic effects or to make their points more relatable.

Linguistics

  • Similes are a key element of figurative language, distinguishing them from metaphors, which do not use 'like' or 'as'.
  • Different languages have their own unique similes, reflecting cultural experiences and values.

Origin of 'similes'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'simile' originates from the Latin 'similis', meaning 'like' or 'similar'.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century to enhance descriptive language.

The term 'simile' originates from the Latin word 'similis', which means 'like' or 'similar'. Similes have been used in literature for centuries to enhance descriptions and create vivid imagery. The use of similes can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman poetry, where poets used them to compare various elements in their works. Over time, similes have become a common literary device used in poetry, prose, and everyday language to make comparisons more engaging and meaningful.

See also: simile, similitude.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,963, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.