Allegory, a symbolic fictional narrative that conveys a meaning not explicitly set forth in the narrative . Allegory, which encompasses such forms as fable, parable, and apologue, may have a meaning on two or more levels that the reader can understand only through an interpretive process. An allegory is a literary or artistic device that uses symbols to convey a hidden or complex meaning . Learn about the origins, types and examples of allegory in classical, biblical and modern literature and art. Definition of allegory noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning , pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. What Is an Allegory? – Meaning and Definition The term ‘ allegory ’ refers to the form of writing that has a moral to be inferred. The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary defines ‘ allegory ’ as “a story, play, picture, etc. in which each character or event is a symbol representing an idea or a quality, such as truth, evil, death, etc.; the use of such symbols”. According to the Concise Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms, ‘ allegory ’ is “a story or visual image with a second ...