1) a placing of one thing by the side of another, juxtaposition,
    as of ships in battle
 2) metaph.
    2a) a comparing, comparison of one thing with another, likeness,
        similitude
    2b) an example by which a doctrine or precept is illustrated
    2c) a narrative, fictitious but agreeable to the laws and usages of
        human life, by which either the duties of men or the things of
        God, particularly the nature and history of God's kingdom are
        figuratively portrayed
    2d) a parable: an earthly story with a heavenly meaning
 3) a pithy and instructive saying, involving some likeness or
    comparison and having preceptive or admonitory force
    3a) an aphorism, a maxim
 4) a proverb
 5) an act by which one exposes himself or his possessions to danger,
    a venture, a risk