motif

UK /moʊˈtiːf/ US /moʊˈtiːf/

noun 5

Definitions

noun

A recurring or dominant element; an artistic theme.

See how the artist repeats the scroll motif throughout the work?

A short melodic or lyrical passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.

A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern.

A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.

The physical object or objects repeated at each point of a lattice. Usually atoms or molecules.

Collocations

(noun.)

ADJ

central, dominant

The theme of family loyalty remained a dominant motif throughout the entire film.

recurring

simple

The artist repeated a simple geometric motif throughout the entire mural.

decorative

fish, flower, etc.

The ceramic tiles feature a delicate blue fish motif that repeats across the bathroom wall.

VERB + MOTIF

be decorated with, have

Thesaurus

Synonyms

noun — a design or figure that consists of recurring shapes or colo

motive

noun — a unifying idea that is a recurrent element in literary or a

theme

noun — a theme that is repeated or elaborated in a piece of music

motive

Antonyms

Idioms & Phrases

Example Bank

See how the artist repeats the scroll motif throughout the work?

Wiktionary

The repeated triplets are the most prominent motif in that movement of the symphony.

Tatoeba · #2349841

Tom painted the room in a jungle motif.

Tatoeba · #3502852

This year's runaway hit is Nigeria's jersey, mainly lime green with a black-and-white wing motif on the sleeves.

Tatoeba · #7009622

Birds are a common motif in Yiddish poetry and song.

Tatoeba · #11351408

She adds the ornaments are the stars of the store: everything from hand-blown glass baubles to sports-themed pieces, and even movie motif ornaments.

Tatoeba · #11600350

Usage Notes

Your note

not saved

0 chars