noun
motif
moh-TEEF
noun
1
A recurring idea, image, or element that runs through a work of art, music, or literature.
"Loneliness is a recurring motif throughout the novel."
"The composer wove a four-note motif through the entire symphony."
2
A repeated decorative shape or pattern used in design.
"The wallpaper features a floral motif in gold and cream."
How to Use Motif
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA theme or pattern that keeps coming back in a piece of art, music, writing, or design.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with motive, which is about a reason for acting, not a repeated artistic pattern — the two words share a French ancestor but split in meaning.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
recurring motif
floral motif
central motif
Word Forms
motifs plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “motif”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Loneliness is a recurring _____ throughout the novel.
Etymology
Borrowed from French motif ("main idea or theme"), which comes from the same root as motive.