1
as in theme
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition)
the motif of mute figures standing in lonely isolation is a recurrent one in the artist's works
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of motif
Whatever evil befalls the poor child is left up to viewers' imaginations, and this is accomplished by a chilling series of shots and a daunting musical motif.
—
Steven Thrash, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Oct. 2025
The title theme’s steadily ascending line, mirroring the claustrophobic tension within the sub, became a signature motif.
—Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 18 Oct. 2025
Unveiled in November 2023, the timepiece features a case shaped like the Japanese artist’s floral motif with 12 petals made entirely of sapphire.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Oct. 2025
That piano, fuzzy with room sound, reappears as a motif throughout the album.
—Walden Green, Pitchfork, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Steven Thrash, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Oct. 2025
The title theme’s steadily ascending line, mirroring the claustrophobic tension within the sub, became a signature motif.
—Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 18 Oct. 2025
Unveiled in November 2023, the timepiece features a case shaped like the Japanese artist’s floral motif with 12 petals made entirely of sapphire.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Oct. 2025
That piano, fuzzy with room sound, reappears as a motif throughout the album.
—Walden Green, Pitchfork, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
Noun
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Hard Rock International Hard Rock International is owned by the Seminole Tribe of Florida and includes a global chain of theme-bar restaurants, casinos, hotels and museums.—
Melanie Hicken,
CNN Money,
24 Oct. 2025
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Why is amnesia such a favorite theme?—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
24 Oct. 2025
Noun
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The high-neck long-sleeve bodysuit, jersey boots, corset mini dress and gloves — all in a subtle floral pattern — emulated her style evolution from casual to high-fashion.—
Ariana Quihuiz,
PEOPLE,
21 Oct. 2025
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Residents asked questions about street traffic, conflicting projects, TARC patterns and construction noise.—
Lillian Metzmeier,
Louisville Courier Journal,
21 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Judging by his big grin, though, the best topic was saved till last when asked to describe Estevao’s display.—
Simon Johnson,
New York Times,
23 Oct. 2025
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Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
23 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Prison guards have struggled to stay safe in the facility due to its outdated design.—
Laura Schulte,
jsonline.com,
27 Oct. 2025
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The front wheel drive (FWD) layout is a key design feature, contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency, size and usability.—
Tony Leopardo,
Mercury News,
26 Oct. 2025
Noun
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To compound matters, Nuno is the first West Ham head coach to be winless in his first four league games since Manuel Pellegrini in September 2018.—
Roshane Thomas,
New York Times,
25 Oct. 2025
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Previous studies relied on a process known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which amplifies small or degraded fragments of DNA, allowing scientists to analyze genetic material even from old or damaged organic matter.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
24 Oct. 2025
Noun
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Typically, programs go back and forth with specialists to hammer out grant details and questions in the months ahead of the disbursement date.—
Beki San Martin,
Freep.com,
27 Oct. 2025
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Both experts noted that while the current package supports growth, the widening gap between low unemployment and soaring deficits poses questions about the viability of America’s debt.—
Eleanor Pringle,
Fortune,
27 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.
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