allegorical
/ˌæl.ɪˈɡɔɹ.ɪ.kəl/
Group 33Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Constituting or containing allegory; having a hidden spiritual meaning GRE
Example in Context
The novel's allegorical framework allowed the author to critique contemporary politics through a seemingly innocent fairy tale narrative.
Synonyms
symbolicfigurativemetaphorical
Etymology
Root meanings suggest speaking in hidden ways, leading to the concept of allegory.
- allegoria (Greek) — speaking otherwise
- allegorikos (Greek) — pertaining to allegory
Memory Aid
🌌Sounds like “allegory galore”
In a world where ALLEGORY GALORE exists, even your grandma’s knitting tells a hidden story!
Visual Association
📖A giant book with characters dressed as symbols, each representing deeper meanings in a vibrant landscape.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “allegorical” mean on the GRE?
allegorical (adjective) means “Constituting or containing allegory; having a hidden spiritual meaning”. The novel's allegorical framework allowed the author to critique contemporary politics through a seemingly innocent fairy tale narrative.
How to remember “allegorical” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “allegorical” sounds like “allegory galore”. In a world where ALLEGORY GALORE exists, even your grandma’s knitting tells a hidden story!
What are synonyms for “allegorical”?
Common synonyms: symbolic, figurative, metaphorical.