Definition of leitmotif
1 : an associated melodic phrase or figure that accompanies the reappearance of an idea, person, or situation especially in a Wagnerian music drama
2 : a dominant recurring theme
From the M-W Editors
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Recent Examples of leitmotif from the Web
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Across the nine stories, in the leitmotif department, trepidations about turning 50 would get the nod.
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Those noises are starting to turn up as audio leitmotifs in horror movies, for chrissakes.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'leitmotif'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Did You Know?
The English word leitmotif (or leitmotiv, as it is also spelled) comes from the German Leitmotiv, meaning "leading motive" and formed from leiten ("to lead") and Motiv (motive). In its original sense, the word applies to opera music and was first used by writers interpreting the works of composer Richard Wagner, who was famous for associating a melody with a character or important dramatic element. Leitmotif is still commonly used with reference to music and musical drama but is now also used more broadly to refer to any recurring theme in the arts or in everyday life.
Origin and Etymology of leitmotif
German Leitmotiv, from leiten to lead + Motiv motive
First Known Use: circa 1880
Learn More about leitmotif
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about leitmotif
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