Which term refers to the extreme use of exaggeration for emphasis?

The term that refers to the extreme use of exaggeration for emphasis is hyperbole. Hyperbole is a literary device commonly employed to create a strong impression or to evoke strong feelings rather than to be taken literally. By using hyperbole, writers can highlight particular characteristics or emotions in an exaggerated manner, which often adds humor or drama to their work. For example, saying "I've told you a million times" uses hyperbole to stress the extent of repetition rather than providing a factual count.

In contrast, a simile directly compares two different things using "like" or "as" to create a vivid image, while a metaphor makes an implicit comparison without those words, indicating that one thing is another to provide deeper meaning. Onomatopoeia refers to words that imitate natural sounds, such as “buzz” or “clang.” Each of these terms has specific definitions and uses, but when it comes to the extreme exaggeration for emphasis, hyperbole is the term that fits perfectly.