Which Is the Best Definition of an Interface Metaphor

Which is the best definition of an interface metaphor?

A) in broad terms, the kind of technical and software framework within which human system interaction takes place (e.g., wimp, mobile, tangible)
B) is used in the interface to help the user understand what to do (e.g., click on tabs to change window
Contents, use shopping cart
C) inputs and receive information from the system (e.g., click and drag an object, talk to an object, move self closer to an object, converse with
D) the conceptual model used to guide the design of the interface.