cipher vs figure

cipher and figure both are nouns.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
cipher	Yes	No	Yes	No
figure	Yes	No	Yes	No

As nouns, figure is a hypernym of cipher; that is, figure is a word with a broader meaning than cipher:

cipher: a mathematical element that when added to another number yields the same number
figure: one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration

Other hypernyms of cipher include digit.

As verbs, cipher and figure are synonyms defined as:

Other synonyms of cipher include calculate, compute, cypher, reckon, work out.

cipher (noun)	figure (noun)
a secret method of writing	a predetermined set of movements in dancing or skating
a message written in a secret code	a model of a bodily form (especially of a person)
a person of no influence	a decorative or artistic work
a quantity of no importance; thing (object:), singular, negative pronoun; pronoun, thing, singular; quantifier: negative existential	the impression produced by a person
a mathematical element that when added to another number yields the same number	the property possessed by a sum or total or indefinite quantity of units or individuals
	alternative names for the body of a human being
	a unitary percept having structure and coherence that is the object of attention and that stands out against a ground
	a diagram or picture illustrating textual material
	language used in a figurative or nonliteral sense
	a well-known or notable person
	an amount of money expressed numerically
	one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration
	a combination of points and lines and planes that form a visible palpable shape

cipher (verb)	figure (verb)
make a mathematical calculation or computation	make a mathematical calculation or computation
convert ordinary language into code	judge to be probable
	understand
	imagine; conceive of; see in one's mind
	be or play a part of or in