Synonyms of motif

motif

noun

mō-ˈtēf 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aside
• tangent
• excursion
• digression
• parenthesis
• interjection

2

as in pattern

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric)

the fabric for the upholstery features a scallop shell motif

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pattern
• design
• ornament
• decoration
• motive
• figure
• scheme
• adornment
• device
• trim
• embellishment
• garnish
• frill
• caparison

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motif

And the motifs that dominated front pages and became ubiquitous on social media weren’t so much what happened on the court or pitch but how fans came together away from the stadium. — Leo MacLehose, Sportico.com, 31 July 2026

Yet to come is new custom wallpaper in a metallic gold motif and new artwork. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026

Wonders continued the black color motif with her footwear, wearing Valentino peep-toe pumps. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 31 July 2026

Their lives were recorded in the form of hagiographies, stories of the saints, often ornamented with folkloric motifs, focusing on marvelous adventures and miraculous doings. — Literary Hub, 30 July 2026