What does the word "metaphor" refer to in literature?

The term "metaphor" refers to a figure of speech that establishes a comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as." This figurative language creates a more powerful or vivid image by suggesting that one thing is another, thereby highlighting certain qualities or characteristics shared between the two. For example, saying "Time is a thief" implies that time can stealthily take moments away from us, much like a thief would steal valuables.

This distinctive characteristic of metaphors distinguishes them from similes, which explicitly use "like" or "as" for comparison. Other options, like character development or exaggeration, pertain to different literary concepts that do not align with the definition of a metaphor. Therefore, understanding the essence of a metaphor is crucial for recognizing its impact and effectiveness in literature.