What is the term for language that employs figures of speech to create deeper meaning?

The term that employs figures of speech to create deeper meaning is figurative language. This type of language goes beyond the literal definitions of words to evoke imagery, emotions, and connections that enhance the reader's or listener's understanding. Figures of speech, such as metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole, are all part of figurative language and serve to enrich the text by making abstract concepts more relatable or vivid.

In contrast, literal language refers to words or phrases that mean exactly what they say, without any embellishment or metaphorical implication. Descriptive language focuses on detailing characteristics to paint a picture in the reader's mind, but it does not necessarily use figures of speech for deeper meaning. Colloquial language consists of informal, conversational phrases that may be specific to a region or group, lacking the poetic depth found in figurative expressions. Therefore, figurative language is the most accurate term for language that uses figures of speech to convey deeper meanings.