Allegory
/ˈæləɡɔːri/
Definitions
A symbolic representation of abstract ideas or concepts through characters, events, or objects.
/ˈæləɡɔːri/
A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Animal Farm is a famous allegory of the Russian Revolution.
💡 Simply: A story with a secret meaning.
More Examples
The author used allegory to convey his message about social injustice.
How It's Used
"The novel is an allegory for the dangers of unchecked power."
"The painting is rich in allegory, depicting the struggle between good and evil."
From late Middle English: via Old French from late Latin allegoria, from Greek allēgoría ‘speaking otherwise’, from allos ‘other’ + agoreuein ‘speak in the assembly’.
Allegory has been used extensively throughout history in religious texts, political satire, and artistic expression.
Memory tip
Think 'allegory' as a story that 'alleges' a hidden meaning.