motif — A recurring theme, pattern, or design element in art, literature, or music. A distinctive and recurring form or idea.
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: A recurring theme, pattern, or design element in art, literature, or music. A distinctive and recurring form or idea.
Pronunciation (IPA): /moʊˈtiːf/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's quilt has a butterfly motif that she copied from her dreams.
- The horror movie used a creepy doll motif so much that I'm afraid of toy stores now.
- The architect incorporated wave motifs throughout the beach house design.
motif
NOUN[/moʊˈtiːf/]
A recurring theme, pattern, or design element in art, literature, or music. A distinctive and recurring form or idea.
A recurring theme, pattern, or design element in art, literature, or music. A distinctive and recurring form or idea.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From French 'motif', which comes from Latin 'motivus' meaning 'moving' or 'causing motion'. The word evolved from meaning 'motive' or 'driving force' to describing a recurring theme or pattern in art and literature.
Breakdown
motiv- (from Latin 'movere' meaning 'to move') + French suffix forming the noun 'motif'
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“My grandmother's quilt has a butterfly motif that she copied from her dreams.”
“The horror movie used a creepy doll motif so much that I'm afraid of toy stores now.”
“The architect incorporated wave motifs throughout the beach house design.”
“His cooking show has a recurring motif of burning at least one dish per episode.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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