motive

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noun

Definition of MOTIVE

1

a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition) <the principal motive of the piece was introduced in the flute section>

Synonyms content, motif, motive, question, subject, theme, topic

Related Words subject matter; talking point; count, idea, point, purpose; consideration, issue, problem; body, bulk, burden, centerpiece, core, crux, essence, fundamental, generality, gist, grist, heart, kernel, keynote, main, marrow, mass, net, nub, nubbin, nucleus, pith, pivot, purport, quick, staple, substance, sum; basis; bottom, essential, essentiality; affair, argument, debate

Near Antonyms aside, digression, excursion, interjection, parenthesis, tangent

2

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) <decorated with a paisley motive>

Synonyms design, figure, motif, motive

Related Words scheme; device; adornment, caparison, decoration, embellishment, frill, garnish, ornament, trim

3

something (as a belief) that serves as the basis for another thing <the detective felt that the first suspect didn't have any motive for committing the crime>

Synonyms account, authority, grounds, motive, subject, wherefore, why

Related Words antecedent, cause, consideration, impetus, incentive, inspiration, instigation, occasion, stimulus