adjective

allegorical

al-uh-GOR-ih-kul/ˌæləˈɡɔːrɪkl/

Using symbolic figures or events to express a deeper meaning.

The blindfolded figure of Justice is an allegorical representation of impartial judgment.

An allegorical figure of Justice stands blindfolded, carefully holding a level balance scale with two equal pans, other hand resting on a closed plain book.

Etymology

allGreekanother, different

+egorGreekspeak openly

+icalEnglishof or pertaining to

The roots express “speaking about something else”: describing one thing through the image of another. Allegorical characters and events therefore carry a second layer of meaning beyond the story itself.

In context

Literature With Preeti Raj29:15

Here the seven deadly sins are presented as allegorical personifications. So in other words, abstract ideas are turned into actual characters.

What is a Masque? Origin, Features, Ben Jonson & Anti-Masque | UGC NET English Literature

More examples

Each animal in the allegorical tale embodies a political group.
The painting's allegorical figures stand for justice and peace.
She reads the storm as an allegorical image of conflict.

Forms

allegory noun — A story whose elements represent deeper meanings.

Similar words

symbolic: Broader; a single object can symbolize something without an allegory.
metaphorical: Can involve a brief comparison rather than an extended narrative.