Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

allegory

noun
/ˈaləˌɡɔri/
Definition
A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Examples
  • George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ is a well-known allegory about the Russian Revolution.
  • In her novel, the author employs an allegory to criticize social injustices.
Meaning
An allegory uses symbolic figures, actions, or events to convey deeper meanings beyond the literal sense.
Synonyms
  • symbol
  • parable
  • metaphor
  • fable