dead metaphor (noun)

(1) A metaphor that has occurred so often that it has become a new meaning of the expression (e.g., `he is a snake' may once have been a metaphor but after years of use it has died and become a new sense of the word `snake')

Examples

1. In Shakespeare's play, Romeo and Juliet, the phrase 'star-crossed lovers' is a dead metaphor that now means two people who are fated to be together, despite the obstacles they face.

In Shakespeare's play, Romeo and Juliet, the phrase 'star-crossed lovers' is a dead metaphor that now means two people who are fated to be together, despite the obstacles they face.

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literature

2. The term 'little black dress' has become a dead metaphor in the fashion industry, referring to a simple, elegant, and versatile dress that every woman should own.

The term 'little black dress' has become a dead metaphor in the fashion industry, referring to a simple, elegant, and versatile dress that every woman should own.

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fashion

3. In the fantasy novel, 'The Lord of the Rings,' the ring of power is a dead metaphor that symbolizes ultimate corruption and desire for power.

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fantasy

4. In Greek mythology, the expression 'Pandora's box' is a dead metaphor that represents something that, once opened, leads to unexpected troubles or consequences.

In Greek mythology, the expression 'Pandora's box' is a dead metaphor that represents something that, once opened, leads to unexpected troubles or consequences.

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mythology