thematic

adjective

the·​mat·​ic thi-ˈma-tik 

1

: of, relating to, or constituting a theme

2

a

: of or relating to the stem of a word

b

of a vowel : being the last part of a word stem before an inflectional ending

thematically

thi-ˈma-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of thematic in a Sentence

the thematic development in the story

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the most compelling thematic ideas in your film is the distinction between a stunt driver and a daredevil — real craft versus reckless delusion. — Matt Grobar, Deadline, 11 Sep. 2026

Perhaps the actions of England’s peasantry made such a formative impression on young Greengrass that he was unconsciously drawn to other stories with a similar thematic undercurrent. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2026

Narrative painting has always occupied museum walls, and thematic displays are increasingly common. — Jane Horowitz, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026

And here’s where all the flash-forward business this season finally comes into thematic focus, imbuing the scene with an Old-Testament style foreboding. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 6 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Greek thematikos, from themat-, thema theme

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing thematic

• thematic apperception test

Rhymes for thematic

• asthmatic
• chromatic
• climatic
• dogmatic
• dramatic
• ecstatic
• emphatic
• erratic
• eustatic
• fanatic
• hepatic
• lymphatic