What literary device compares two things using “like” or “as”?

A simile is a literary device that compares two different things using the words “like” or “as.” For example, “Her smile was as bright as the sun” illustrates a simile by comparing a smile to sunlight, showing its brightness. This device helps create vivid imagery, making descriptions relatable and memorable for readers. Similes are often used in poetry and prose to enhance the writing and evoke strong emotions or visuals. By comparing one thing to another, similes can also help readers better understand complex ideas or feelings.