nonliteral

adjective

non·​lit·​er·​al ˌnän-ˈli-t(ə-)rəl How to pronounce nonliteral (audio)
: not literal
a nonliteral interpretation/translation
a nonliteral use of language

Examples of nonliteral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition, neurodivergent women, such as those with autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, may be excluded from whisper networks because information is often shared using indirect or nonliteral language. Carrie Ann Johnson, Fortune, 4 Jan. 2023 Thirsty, even, in its most nonliteral meaning. Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 16 July 2021 The New York Times is concerned about its subscribers’ intolerance for opposing views, not about nonliteral terminology about opposing pages. Nicholas Clairmont, Washington Examiner, 29 Apr. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonliteral was in 1875

Dictionary Entries Near nonliteral

Cite this Entry

“Nonliteral.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonliteral. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on nonliteral

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!