I like the notion that we are all, to some degree, synaesthetes. Hence the colourful similes and metaphors that add spice to speech.<p>See? Can similes be colourful? Can speech be spicy?<p>To me this chimes with human brains being pattern seeking&#x2F;matching machines. Enough meaning leaks across discrete word definitions that we can freely use phrases such as &quot;an icy stare&quot;, &quot;a prickly relationship&quot; to appeal to senses that are not directly involved in stares or relationships.<p>I have heard language theorists suggest that this appeal to multi-sensory communication may have influenced the evolution of language among early humans. Unfortunately I have no memory of who said this.<p>Still. I enjoy the theory.