The term acquired a number of metaphorical meanings.

But that form then takes on metaphorical meanings for listeners.

The b-sentences are possible only given an unusual context that establishes appropriate metaphorical meaning.

However, not all inhabitants know its metaphorical meaning or even the word as such.

It also has the metaphorical meaning of making something more resistant to some threat:

The idea of heaviness as a function of time also turns the word "gravity" to its metaphorical meaning.

But there is always a metaphorical meaning: to understand.

The metaphorical meaning struck Jen even in her distracted state.

The two were literal synonyms for "the sower", but their metaphorical meaning was more complex.

The phrase is often used for its metaphorical meaning of dispelling ignorance.