About This Figurative Language Word Search
Inspire creative reading and writing with this Free Printable Figurative Language Word Search Puzzle. Packed with 15 literary devices—such as Metaphor, Simile, Onomatopoeia, and Hyperbole—this worksheet helps students unlock the expressive artistry of literature.
Features a clean, student-friendly 8.5×11" layout with an answer key included on Page 2, ideal for National Poetry Month and novel study units.
15 Vocabulary Words Included
Here are the 15 words hidden inside this puzzle, along with their thematic definitions for classroom discussions:
METAPHOR
A figure of speech comparing two unlike things directly without using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Time is a thief').
SIMILE
A figure of speech comparing two unlike things using the words 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Busy as a bee').
HYPERBOLE
Deliberate and extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or comic effect (e.g., 'I have a ton of homework').
IDIOM
A common phrase whose figurative meaning cannot be understood from the literal words (e.g., 'Piece of cake').
ALLITERATION
The repetition of the same initial consonant sound in closely placed words (e.g., 'Peter Piper picked').
IMAGERY
Descriptive language that appeals vividly to the five human senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell).
SYMBOLISM
The use of symbols, objects, or colors to represent deeper ideas and qualities (e.g., a dove for peace).
PERSONIFY
Giving human traits, emotions, or actions to non-human things or animals (e.g., 'The wind whispered').
PUN
A humorous play on words exploiting different meanings or words that sound similar.
OXYMORON
A figure of speech pairing contradictory terms together (e.g., 'Deafening silence', 'Jumbo shrimp').
ONOMATOPOEIA
Words that phonetically imitate the sound they describe (e.g., 'Buzz', 'Splash', 'Bang', 'Whisper').
RHYME
Repetition of similar sounding syllables at the ends of poetic lines or verse.
ANALOGY
A comparison between two different things to explain or clarify a complex idea.
IRONY
The expression of meaning using language that signifies the opposite, often for humorous or emphatic effect.
POETRY
Literary work expressing feelings and ideas with distinctive style, rhythm, and imaginative verse.
3 Fun Ways to Use This Printable in the Classroom
Make the most of this worksheet with these creative lesson and activity ideas:
- Figurative Language Scavenger Hunt: Have students look through their current classroom novel to find and record real examples of similes, metaphors, and personification.
- Idiom Illustration Literal vs. Figurative: Fold a paper in half. On the left, draw the literal meaning of an idiom ('It is raining cats and dogs'); on the right, draw the true meaning.
- Onomatopoeia Comic Strip: Create a 3-panel action comic that incorporates at least four sound words (onomatopoeia) in speech bubbles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this puzzle suitable for middle school ELA?
Yes, it directly reinforces 4th–8th grade Common Core ELA standards for reading literature and craft.
Does the download include an answer key?
Yes, Page 2 features the complete highlighted solution key.
Can I print this for National Poetry Month?
Absolutely! It is one of our most popular printables for April National Poetry Month activities.